A civil trial is underway involving a former Virginia schoolteacher, Abigail Zwerner, who was shot by a 6-year-old student in January 2023. Zwerner is suing Ebony Parker, the school’s former assistant principal, for $40 million, claiming negligence in failing to address warnings about the child’s potential possession of a firearm on the day of the incident.
Details of the Shooting Incident
On the day of the shooting at Richneck Elementary School in Newport News, Virginia, Zwerner testified that she was shot while teaching her first-grade class. A single bullet went through her hand and into her chest. Zwerner vividly described her traumatic experience, saying, “I thought I was dying.”
Warnings Ignored?
Zwerner alleges that Parker ignored warnings that the student was in a “violent mood” and had made threats against another child. She claims Parker was informed about the student’s potential gun possession 45 minutes before the shooting but failed to take any action.
Testimony and Aftermath
During her testimony, Zwerner detailed her emotional and physical struggles since the incident. She described feeling “connected and close” to loved ones, yet also experiencing numbness. Her injuries have impacted her ability to perform simple tasks, such as opening a bag of chips.
Parker’s attorney, Daniel Hogan, argues that it was impossible to foresee that a young student would bring a firearm to school. He posed challenging questions to the jury regarding the foreseeability of such an incident and the role Zwerner may have played in her own safety.
Legal Consequences
The lawsuit against Parker claims she acted with “reckless disregard for human life.” It continues to outline her alleged indifference to the warnings provided by Zwerner and staff members. Legal consequences are also being faced by Parker; she is charged with eight counts of felony child neglect, which could lead to a five-year prison sentence.
Parental and Community Impact
The mother of the 6-year-old student was sentenced to nearly four years in prison for child neglect and federal weapons charges. The young student has not been charged with any wrongdoing and has since been placed in a relative’s care, now attending a different school.
Looking Ahead
This civil trial is a crucial step in addressing accountability and the safety measures in place at educational institutions. As the jury evaluates the evidence, this case raises significant questions regarding the responsibilities of school administrators and the safety of students and teachers alike.
