Morehouse Student Arrested After Viral Clark Atlanta Incident
A Morehouse College student has been arrested following a widely circulated social media video depicting him assaulting a Clark Atlanta University student. This deeply disturbing incident has ignited widespread concern and swift responses from both university administrations within the close-knit Atlanta University Center (AUC) community.
Details of the Altercation
The incident began on a Georgia State University bus when the victim reportedly had her foot stepped on. When she sought an apology, the aggressor’s girlfriend, a Clark Atlanta University student, allegedly pushed the victim, escalating the situation into a confrontation. Police have identified the Morehouse student involved as Matthew Gonzales Forestine.
The Viral Video and Assault Charges
Footage that quickly spread across social media shows Gonzales Forestine joining his girlfriend in attacking the victim. The video specifically captures him choking the woman and lifting her off the ground, a shocking display that prompted immediate outrage. As a result of the investigation, Gonzales Forestine is now facing criminal charges for aggravated assault and terroristic threats.
University Responses and Commitment to Safety
Both Morehouse College and Clark Atlanta University (CAU) have issued strong statements condemning the violence and affirming their commitment to student safety and well-being. Their coordinated response highlights the seriousness with which these institutions address such incidents.
| Institution | Key Message |
|---|---|
| Morehouse College | Condemned behavior as inconsistent with mission and values; affirmed swift response from Campus Safety and Student Services; committed to partnership with CAU and Atlanta Police Department for full investigation and accountability, while respecting student privacy laws. |
| Clark Atlanta University | Expressed deep concern for the assaulted student and condemned all forms of violence, especially against women; reiterated student safety and dignity as highest priority; pledged close cooperation with Atlanta Police Department for immediate resolution and called for community unity in compassion and accountability. |
Morehouse College’s Statement
The Morehouse College Division of Student Services stated that the behavior shown in the video is “disappointing and completely inconsistent with Morehouse’s mission, values, and expectations.” They emphasized their swift response in reviewing the matter through established student conduct processes and their close partnership with Clark Atlanta University leadership and the Atlanta Police Department to ensure a “just resolution.” Morehouse reaffirmed its highest priority as the safety and well-being of all students and its commitment to accountability.
Clark Atlanta University President’s Address
Dr. George T. French, President of Clark Atlanta University, conveyed deep concern for his student, stating, “As a father, this disgusting display of violence against a young woman is unacceptable and has no place in our community.” He unequivocally denounced violence, particularly against women, as “intolerable, unacceptable, and has no place on our campuses.” Dr. French assured the community that CAU is working closely with the Atlanta Police Department to resolve the matter immediately, urging the Panther family to keep those affected in their thoughts.
What’s Next for the Atlanta University Center?
The incident underscores the vital importance of safety and respectful conduct within the Atlanta University Center, a collective of historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) that form a significant cultural and educational hub in Atlanta. The ongoing legal process and the universities’ internal conduct reviews will determine the full implications for all parties involved. This situation serves as a stark reminder of the need for continued vigilance and strong community standards to protect students.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who was arrested in connection with the viral video?
Matthew Gonzales Forestine, a Morehouse College student, has been arrested. - What charges is he facing?
Gonzales Forestine is being charged with aggravated assault and terroristic threats. - What initially led to the altercation?
The incident began on a Georgia State University bus when the victim’s foot was allegedly stepped on, followed by a confrontation involving the aggressor’s girlfriend. - How have the universities responded?
Both Morehouse College and Clark Atlanta University have issued strong statements condemning the violence, initiating investigations, and reaffirming their commitment to student safety and accountability. - What is the Atlanta University Center (AUC)?
The AUC refers to a consortium of historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) located in Atlanta, Georgia, including Morehouse College and Clark Atlanta University, known for its rich academic and cultural community.
This incident serves as a crucial reminder for the entire Atlanta University Center community that fostering a safe and respectful environment is paramount, requiring ongoing commitment from students, faculty, and administration alike.
Morehouse student arrested for viral bus assault
