Expert: Ex-Educator Neglected Duty by Not Searching Armed First-Grader
An education expert testified in a significant civil trial regarding a shooting incident involving a 6-year-old and his first-grade teacher. The case centers on former assistant principal Ebony Parker, accused of neglecting her duties by ignoring warnings that the student may have brought a weapon to Richneck Elementary in Newport News, Virginia, on January 6, 2023. The trial seeks $40 million in damages for teacher Abigail Zwerner, who was injured during the shooting.
Expert Testimony Highlights Negligence
During the proceedings, Ann Shufflebarger, a school administration specialist, detailed how Parker received multiple alerts about the firearm. Specifically, Shufflebarger noted that Parker was informed of the weapon four times, which presented “one more opportunity” to ensure student safety.
- Parker was responsible for confiscating the backpack.
- She should have searched the student and notified law enforcement.
- Shufflebarger stated that safety protocols were neglected.
Details of the Incident
On the day of the shooting, bodycam footage showed law enforcement responding to the incident after Zwerner was shot. The bullet caused significant injury, passing through her hand and becoming lodged in her chest. Medical experts compared her injury to that of a combat wound, emphasizing the risks associated with surgical removal of the bullet.
During the trial, Zwerner’s legal team focused on Parker’s inaction. They presented testimony from teachers who warned Parker about the potential threat after hearing from students about the gun.
Defensive Arguments and Legal Consequences
Parker’s attorney, Daniel Hogan, argued that it was unrealistic to anticipate a 6-year-old bringing a firearm to school. He emphasized that decisions made must reflect the context and information available at the time.
In addition to the civil trial, Parker faces serious criminal charges, including felony child abuse and neglect. A grand jury had previously deemed her lack of action as “shocking,” each count carrying a possible five-year prison sentence. The current status of her plea remains unclear.
As the case unfolds, it draws attention to school safety protocols and the responsibilities of educational staff in preventing similar incidents in the future.
