Mother speaks out after daughter struck several times during physical altercation at Depew High School

DEPEW, N.Y. (WIVB) -- A video circulating on social media shows a Depew High School freshman being struck by two fellow students in a cafeteria. The victim's mother says no parent should have to worry about their child's safety when within school walls.

"I've probably seen it about 20 times at this point, and it hurts even more every time," said Rachel Bohn.

Rachel Bohn's 14-year-old daughter is seen in a video being struck several times by two girls. She told us her daughter is back in school, but said this is something she'll carry with her the rest of her life.

"It made me sick," said Bohn. "It made me physically ill to see what they did to my daughter."

Just moments before the incident, the video shows two girls walking up behind the victim in the cafeteria. The victim's hair is pulled as she goes down on the cafeteria floor.

Two girls can be seen on video striking the 14-year-old several times.

Bohn said her daughter used to be friends with one of the girls involved.

No one intervenes until the last few seconds of the video. Bohn said the most disturbing part of the video was "That people just stood there and watched."

Bohn told WIVB News 4 her daughter suffered contusions to the head and bruising on her body. She wants the girls involved expelled from the school.

"It's tough," Bohn said. "I mean, she's looking over her shoulder constantly now because, I mean, an assault like that, that doesn't just walk away from your brain, that stays. And she tries to put on a brave face and say she's fine. But as her mother, I can tell when she's not."

A letter went out to parents from the high school principal, saying in part that this type of conduct is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated. The principal also wrote, "The matter is being addressed in accordance with district policy, including working closely with our school resource officer."

Bohn said a report has been filed with Depew Police.

WIVB News 4 reached out to the district for clarification on what potential discipline the students are facing. Superintendent of Depew Schools Katie Smith said, "Please note that I am unable to answer the specific questions as they pertain to a confidential student matter."

The following statement is posted on the district homepage:

"The District is aware of the physical altercation that occurred between students at the High School on October 27, 2025.

We are addressing this matter in accordance with District policy and state regulations and are working with local law enforcement. The safety and well-being of our students is the District's highest priority. This type of conduct is unacceptable and will not be tolerated in our schools. Matters pertaining to individual students are confidential and cannot be discussed pursuant to federal privacy law.

Rest assured, the District is also reviewing safety protocols to maintain a secure learning environment for all.

We remain committed to fostering a safe, respectful, and supportive school community."