Two Mark Morris High School students were taken into custody this week in connection with an ongoing Longview Police Department investigation into reported sexual abuse and rape involving juveniles at the school. According to reporting by KOIN 6 News, the arrests include allegations of rape and indecent exposure. Both individuals are juveniles, and no identifying information has been released.

Longview police confirmed that the investigation remains active. Detectives are also reviewing whether any school staff failed to meet Washington State’s mandatory reporting requirements for suspected child abuse. Those requirements, outlined under state law, obligate designated school personnel to immediately notify authorities when they have reasonable cause to believe a student may be harmed or at risk.

Mark Morris High School, located within the Longview School District, has not released a detailed public statement beyond acknowledging cooperation with law enforcement. As of Thursday, February 19, 2026, no staff members have been publicly named or charged, and investigators have not announced findings regarding compliance with reporting obligations.

Because the individuals involved are minors and the investigation is ongoing, police have limited what information can be released. The department has not indicated a timeline for further updates.

Why This Matters

The case touches on broader issues of student safety in Cowlitz County and the legal responsibilities of school employees when allegations of harm surface. Mandatory reporting rules exist to ensure that concerns are routed quickly to trained investigators, especially in environments where power imbalances can hinder disclosure. Understanding whether those procedures were correctly followed is essential to public trust in local institutions.

For families in Longview and Kelso, the investigation’s outcome may determine whether changes to school training, oversight, or policies are warranted. The situation also aligns with statewide conversations about how Washington schools respond to safety concerns, particularly those involving minors.

Conclusion

The Longview Police Department continues to investigate the reported assaults and review staff actions at Mark Morris High School. Further details are expected as detectives complete interviews and evaluate evidence. Columbia Countercurrent will provide updates as verifiable information becomes available.

Sources:
KOIN 6 News: 2 students arrested at Longview high school on rape, indecent exposure charges