August 1, 2025

Daniel High School Football Players Involved in Violent Incident at Presbyterian College

News Summary

On July 7, members of the Daniel High School football team engaged in a violent altercation at Presbyterian College during a summer football camp. The Pickens County School District has confirmed that an investigation is underway, with criminal charges filed against some students involved. Concerns surrounding student safety and the response from the school district and community are growing as the investigation continues.

Violent Altercation Involving Daniel High School Football Players at Presbyterian College

Pickens, SC – On July 7, several members of the Daniel High School football team were involved in a violent altercation at Presbyterian College while attending a Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) summer football camp. The incident took place in a dorm room and has since raised serious concerns within the community and the Pickens County School District.

The Pickens County School District acknowledged the incident in a statement released on July 27, indicating that an investigation is currently underway to address the serious nature of what occurred during this school-sponsored event. The Board of Trustees has been informed of the disturbing footage of the altercation circulating on social media, which has prompted heightened scrutiny.

Reports indicate that one student sustained injuries during the fight, leading to criminal charges being filed against several students involved. The district has reiterated its commitment to following established disciplinary policies while cooperating fully with law enforcement from Laurens County in the ongoing investigation.

Due to federal privacy laws, specifically the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), the district is unable to disclose specific details regarding the individuals involved or the nature of the disciplinary actions that are being considered. However, officials have assured the public that they are dedicated to ensuring that the situation is addressed fairly and thoroughly, in accordance with district and athletic policies.

Immediate Actions Taken

The Fellowship of Christian Athletes organization responded to the incident by immediately sending home the campers who were involved. This swift action highlights the organization’s commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all participants.

Pickens County Sheriff, Tommy Blankenship, confirmed that the case is being investigated by the juvenile prosecution team after being referred by the campus police at Presbyterian College. This indicates that local authorities are actively engaged in determining the circumstances surrounding the altercation and the individuals responsible for it.

Coaching and School District Response

In light of the situation, Daniel High School football coach Chris Stone has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. This decision reflects the school district’s serious approach to handling the incident and ensuring accountability at all levels.

The Pickens County School District has emphasized the importance of student safety and preventing similar occurrences in the future. Officials are working diligently to gather all pertinent information before determining the appropriate steps to take moving forward.

Community Concerns

As this situation unfolds, the community remains concerned about the safety and well-being of student-athletes. Parents and community members have expressed a desire for transparency from the school district and assurance that measures will be implemented to prevent such incidents in the future.

Currently, the investigation is ongoing, and more information will be provided as it becomes available. The school district and law enforcement officials continue to work together to bring clarity and resolution to this troubling incident that has impacted the local community and the reputation of the Daniel High School football program.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Violent Incident at Presbyterian College Summer Camp Involves High School Students
Assault Involving D.W. Daniel High School Football Players Raises Concerns
D.W. Daniel High School Football Coach Placed on Leave Amid Investigation
D.W. Daniel High School Football Team Under Investigation
Union Community Remembers Betty Lou Stapleton and Owen Lee Gregory
Tribute to Beloved Educator William Ostrander
Tragic News from Greenwood, SC: Young Life Cut Short in Single-Vehicle Crash
New Taphouse Crafthouse North to Open in Mount Pleasant
Upstate South Carolina Bracing for Severe Thunderstorms
Nine Charged in Laurens Shooting Incident

Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE CLINTON

The CLINTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREClinton.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Clinton, Laurens County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Discovery, Clinton Community Day, and performances at the Whitten Center Amphitheater. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce and the Laurens County Historical Society, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and education that power the local economy such as Milliken & Company and Presbyterian College. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.