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Mansfield officials open investigation into apparent racial slur shouted during basketball game

“We want all students to feel a sense of belonging and believe there is no place for hateful language in our school or school community,” said Mansfield Superintendent Teresa Murphy.

February 9, 2024

1 minute to read

Mansfield school officials are looking into a video that caught a high school basketball fan allegedly yelling out a racial slur during a game.

The incident happened Thursday night at a boy’s basketball game at Mansfield High School as the team faced off against Sharon High School.

Mansfield reportedly won that game 72 to 58. Since then, the video has been making the rounds on social media.

In a statement released on Friday, Mansfield Public Schools Superintendent Teresa Murphy said school officials are investigating and intend to discipline any students who may have been involved.

“This morning, I was made aware of a social media video being circulated today that contains audio of a member of the audience allegedly shouting a racial slur during the basketball game at Mansfield High School last night,” Murphy said. “Upon learning of this incident, I immediately ordered the launch of an investigation with the assistance of school officials and the district’s School Resource Officer, in keeping with our policies and procedures.”

If the investigation finds that students used a racial slur, they will face discipline as outlined in the district’s student code of conduct and handbook.

“We want all students to feel a sense of belonging and believe there is no place for hateful language in our school or school community,” Murphy said. “Our core values reflect our wish that all students respect others and act in ways that reflect their best selves.”