Students in Tuscumbia City Schools can expect to see a heightened police presence today as tensions continue to mount over an incident last Tuesday that left a freshman with severe head trauma.
Superintendent Russell Tate sent an email to parents on Thursday announcing the extra security measures.
"Friday, August 29, 2025, all Tuscumbia City Schools will have a more enhanced police presence during the school day. This is in addition to our regular School Resource Officers," he wrote.
He also sent an email explaining that Friday's home football game between Deshler High School and Hatton High School would have added security procedures, including the use of metal detectors and a clear-bag policy.
"Enhanced security measures will be in effect for Friday's Deshler High School football game against Hatton High School," the email stated. "The Tuscumbia City Schools will utilize metal detectors and implement a clear bag policy for the game. Fans are asked to arrive early to allow for time to go through the additional security process. Additionally, fans will not be allowed to visit the field from the opposing side's stands as a precautionary measure. Only student athletes and those with proper field credentials will be allowed on the field."
Though not mentioned in either email, the need for extra security ostensibly stems from a recent incident at Deshler High School that left freshman August Borden with major injuries.
Parents and members of the community have been demanding answers from school officials, but have so far only gotten conflicting accounts, ranging from an accidental fall to a physical altercation with another student.
Also on Thursday, the Tuscumbia Police Department announced it was turning over its investigation into the incident to the Franklin County Juvenile Probation Office.
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