FAIRFIELD TOWNSHIP, PA — Four teenagers have been charged as adults following a riot Saturday night at a youth facility in Fairfield Township that resulted in injuries to staff and significant property damage, according to Pennsylvania State Police and the Westmoreland County District Attorney’s Office.
Police were called to The Outside in School of Experiential Education around 8:30 p.m. to address the incident, which reportedly escalated from an altercation among students. Staff told investigators that the teens aggressively turned on employees, with several staff members injured in the process.
The four individuals charged were identified as Rockey Magar, 15; Lamont Warren, 15; Christian White, 15; and Faizon Way, 16. Each faces charges including riot, aggravated assault, institutional vandalism, terroristic threats, and causing catastrophe. All four are being held on $100,000 bail.
Investigators stated that the riot involved the creation of makeshift weapons, including pencils, broken glass, a lamp, and a broom handle. Additional damage was reported to bathroom facilities, and a fire extinguisher was discharged within the building. Police also noted that a couple dozen juveniles were involved, with surveillance footage under review to identify others potentially involved.
The facility, which serves as a school and shelter for court-adjudicated juveniles and provides substance abuse treatment, is working with authorities as the investigation continues.