Gayle King Speaks Out On Oprah's School Abuse Allegations

LOS ANGELES, Calif. (October 30, 2007) - Gayle King, Oprah Winfrey's longtime friend and partner in the all-girls school in South Africa, spoke publicly about the investigation taking place at the boarding school.

[ Oprah Winfrey - View the gallery ]

"It's just heart wrenching that that the situation even happened. It really is," King told People. "Heart wrenching doesn't do it justice."

Oprah and Gayle are said to be taking an active role in the investigation to find out what happened at the school.

[ Oprah's Emotional Apology - Watch the Video ]

"We're definitely working on it. There is still an investigation. We're trying to figure out what is real and what isn't," King added.

An emotional Oprah Winfrey addressed the parents of students, begging for their forgiveness, after allegations surfaced that one of the employees fondled a female student and that other students had been physically abused.

Prior to the alleged fondling incident, Oprah placed the school's principal, Dr. Mzimane, and at least one other employee on leave two weeks ago. Dr. Mzimane was accused of failing to take action in light of the recent allegations.

Oprah and Gayle have traveled to the school twice in the last week.