A Texas teen is recovering in the ICU after a shocking and violent assault that occurred when he cracked a joke at school. 14-year-old Lukas Hardeman from Kilgore, Texas, was attacked by another student on August 21, leaving him with severe head injuries. The assault, which took place in the cafeteria, resulted in Lukas having parts of his skull removed and 60 staples placed in his head.
The Violent Attack
According to Lukas’ father, Michael Hardeman, the attack occurred when Lukas made a joke, which seemingly triggered another student to respond with violence. The student allegedly smashed Lukas’ head against a metal pole attached to a stool. The force of the impact caused significant damage to Lukas’ head, leading to urgent medical intervention.
Lukas was rushed to Children’s Hospital in Dallas, where surgeons performed a critical procedure to relieve pressure and stop bleeding by removing two parts of his skull. This life-saving surgery was followed by 60 staples being placed to hold his head together.
Lukas Hardeman (left) Credit: GoFundMe & Michael Hardeman (right) Credit: YouTube / KLTV
Speaking to local news outlet KLTV, Lukas’ father shared the emotional toll the incident has taken on his family: “He’s embarrassed. He is hurt. He is struggling.” Despite the emotional and physical pain, Michael Hardeman expressed hope that his son would recover with the support of his family and faith, saying, “My son is only alive today because of Jesus, and he had his hands around his heart.”
Lukas’ Ongoing Recovery
Lukas remains in the ICU as his family anxiously awaits further updates on his condition. The Hardemans have set up a GoFundMe campaign to help with Lukas’ medical expenses, which has already raised $39,000 of its $40,000 goal. His mother, Catom Morris-Hardeman, wrote on the fundraising page that their lives have been turned upside down by the traumatic event.
“This sudden trauma has turned our lives upside down,” the page reads. “We’ve had to travel hours from home to be with Lukas, missing work and staying in hotels to support him during this critical time. The medical bills, travel costs, and future doctor visits are overwhelming, and we’re facing many unexpected expenses as Lukas begins his long road to recovery.”
The Hardemans continue to face the financial burden of Lukas’ recovery, but they remain hopeful for his progress.
Community Response and School Safety
This incident has raised concerns about safety in Kilgore schools. According to KLTV, ambulances were called to Lukas’ middle school twice since August 20, along with one other incident at Kilgore High School. These incidents have prompted local parents to raise questions about the safety measures in place at the schools.
Kilgore ISD School Board President Jason Smith addressed the community’s concerns, stating that while the district is unable to release specific details due to privacy laws, it is committed to ensuring the safety and support of students. Smith emphasized the importance of open communication while maintaining the confidentiality required by laws like FERPA and HIPAA.
Lukas Hardeman remains in ICU. Credit / Support Lukas Hardeman’s Recovery
A Call for Better Protection
This distressing event has highlighted the urgent need for improved safety protocols in schools. As more families voice their concerns, many are asking: What more can be done to protect students in schools across the U.S.?
The Hardemans’ GoFundMe page has continued to receive an outpouring of support, with people from across the country sending their well wishes to Lukas. The Hardeman family is determined to help Lukas recover fully and are grateful for the kindness and prayers they’ve received.
For those wishing to assist, you can visit Lukas’ GoFundMe page to help with his recovery.
Send prayers for Lukas Hardeman, and join the community in supporting his healing journey.
