TEXARKANA, Ark. - Arkansas-side officers were dispatched to North Heights Jr High at the request of TASD school security on Friday after being informed a maroon van was driving erratically through a field behind the school, which was part of the school grounds.
At the time this occurred, a school event was being held outside in the same area, with over 200 children being present. Upon officer's arrival, the suspect was located in the open field between the school and Nix Creek. The suspect, identified as Michelle Harutunian, stated to officers that she was driving through the field looking for her dog.
Upon further investigation, it was learned from school staff they had an ongoing event where over 200 children were present when Harutunian suddenly began driving through the field of the school, causing several children to jump out of the way of her vehicle. School staff then began running after the van, and the driver suddenly accelerated towards a nearby wood line, where more children were present, causing them to flee for safety as well.
Harutunian then drove into an overgrown field between the school and Nix Creek, where officers made contact with her. Due to Harutunian's erratic behavior which caused a substantial danger of death or serious physical injury to several TASD students and staff, she was arrested for Aggravated Assault. Additional charges may be brought, after further investigation.
No students or staff were harmed by this incident. The Texarkana Arkansas Police Department is dedicated to ensuring the safety of our schools and will work diligently with TASD staff and security to ensure their safety is not compromised.
Anyone with information concerning this incident is asked to contact the Texarkana, AR Police Department Criminal Investigation Division at 903-798-3154.