Family Sues Daycare After Alleged Toddler ‘Fight Club’ Incident
A family sues daycare after alleged toddler 'fight club' incident. Surveillance shows staff instigating child violence.
POLICY WIRE — Fort Worth, Texas — A family has filed a legal action against a local daycare center following an incident involving a 4-year-old boy, alleging that an employee encouraged a violent altercation.
The lawsuit, filed against Arka Montessori Academy of Risinger, stems from an April 27 visit by the child’s mother, Heather Harris, who suspected something was wrong and decided to check on her son, according to reports from WFAA.
Surveillance footage reportedly shows a former employee encouraging her own child to attack the victim before physically shaking him, causing the boy to fall. The family’s attorney, Russell T. Button, described the scene as resembling a “child fight club,” stating the facility failed in its responsibility to protect the child.
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Heather Harris said she sensed something was off based on her son’s behavior and immediately requested to view the cameras. She expressed deep disappointment in the daycare, which had previously been chosen for its cleanliness, educational focus, and 24-7 surveillance.
Richard Harris, the boy’s father, shared that they had believed they found a top-quality facility, but now feel betrayed. He noted that their son, who used to enjoy sports and Michael Jackson dance moves, is still carrying his glove as a symbol of his resilience.
The academy has faced 21 deficiencies since January 2024, though a recent inspection on August 20, 2026, showed no issues. The family’s attorney emphasized that speaking out could lead to broader accountability and safer environments for children in similar facilities.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
