Abigail Zwerner Secures $10 Million in Virginia School Shooting Lawsuit
A jury in Newport News, Virginia, awarded former teacher Abigail Zwerner $10 million in a lawsuit related to a school shooting incident. The jury found that former assistant principal Ebony Parker’s negligence led to the events on January 6, 2023, when a 6-year-old boy shot Zwerner at Richneck Elementary School.
Details of the Incident
During the trial, evidence indicated that Parker had been informed about concerns regarding the child carrying a gun. A fellow teacher testified that she notified Parker after students reported the boy had a firearm in his backpack. Another instructor confirmed that she conveyed the same warning.
Verdict and Compensation
The jury took a total of six hours to deliberate before reaching their conclusion on Thursday. Zwerner sustained gunshot wounds to her hand and chest. The jury’s decision highlighted a failure to act when a potential threat was reported.
Legal Arguments
Zwerner’s attorney emphasized the responsibility of school officials to address threats. He stated, “You cannot stick your head in the sand.” Meanwhile, Parker’s defense argued that she did not have a legal obligation to protect Zwerner, framing her decisions as reasonable.
Ongoing Legal Issues
In addition to the civil case, Parker faces criminal charges for felony child abuse and neglect. The proceedings for these charges are slated to begin in late November. This situation places Zwerner in a complex position, as her lawsuit’s financial outcome could affect the criminal case.
Insurance Implications
The verdict may be funded by the Virginia Risk Sharing Association (VRSA), an insurance pool for public entities, including the Newport News School Board. However, if Parker is convicted of her alleged misdemeanors, VRSA might argue they are not liable for the payout. This complexity illustrates the intersections of civil responsibility and criminal conduct in school settings.
Understanding the Broader Context
This case serves as a critical reminder of the importance of school safety protocols. Proper response to threats is not only a legal obligation but also integral to ensuring the safety of students and staff.
As discussions evolve around school safety, the Zwerner case contributes to ongoing debates regarding the responsibilities of educational administrators in preventing violence in schools.
