Rainier Middle School coach/teacher under investigation

Auburn School District received a report from a parent regarding “actions taken by the Rainier Middle School baseball coach during practice.”

A Rainier Middle School baseball coach and teacher faces investigations regarding a report of child abuse at the middle school baseball team’s practice on May 8.

The Auburn Police Department received a report of child abuse at approximately 11:07 a.m. May 8 from an individual regarding an “incident involving a coach and a team” at Rainier Middle School, according to the department.

Police have not filed any criminal charges as of May 16, according to the department.

The department declined to provide further information regarding the incident.

On May 9, the Auburn School District received a report from a parent regarding “actions taken by the Rainier Middle School baseball coach during practice,” according to an email from Vicki Alonzo, public information officer for the school district.

Pending investigation into the incident, the district cancelled the team’s May 9 practice.

After Auburn police conducted an initial investigation into the incident on May 10, the district immediately removed the coach from coaching duties, according to Alonzo’s email. Awaiting further investigation, they have placed the teacher on administrative leave.

The Auburn Police Department’s public information log listed the incident as an “assault” involving an unspecified weapon. The log lists multiple victims.

The school district has not conducted its own internal investigation regarding the incident, according to Alonzo.

The reporting party listed on the public information log has not responded to request for comment as of May 17.