Crime
Video shows moments shots fired at St. Martinville High School homecoming game
One person has died as a result of the shooting. 22-year-old Zackyric Gardner arrested.
UPDATE: A tragic shooting incident occurred during the St. Martinville High School homecoming football game on Friday night, resulting in one fatality.
St. Martinville Police Chief Ricky Martin confirmed the death and announced the arrest of 22-year-old Zackyric Gardner in connection with the crime.
Gardner was apprehended in Texas and is facing a charge of second-degree murder.
His bond has been set at a substantial $10 million.
The shooting sparked widespread outrage and concern, highlighting the growing issue of gun violence, particularly at public events.
Anyone with information regarding the incident is urged to contact the St. Martinville Police Department Detectives at 337-394-3001.
ORIGINAL REPORT:
A shooting incident occurred during the St. Martinville High School homecoming game on Friday night.
One person was injured in the incident.
The shooting caused chaos and panic among the crowd.
Several social media posts documented the frightening experience as gunshots rang out during the event.
St. Martinville Police have identified a suspect in connection with the shooting.
The community is shocked and saddened by this act of violence, which disrupted a joyful occasion.
Many have expressed frustration over the increasing prevalence of gun violence, particularly at public events like high school football games.
As the investigation continues, more information will be released.
Lindley Middle School, located at 50 Veterans Memorial Highway, was placed on lockdown Wednesday afternoon following a shooting incident on campus, authorities confirmed.
The swift response ensured the safety of students and staff, and the campus has since been thoroughly cleared and deemed secure.
Officer S.A. Barner of the Cobb County Police Department stated:
“In conjunction with the Cobb County School Police, we responded to an incident at Lindley Middle School following a report of a person shot.”
The shooting resulted in one confirmed victim, identified as a juvenile. Details regarding their identity or the severity of their injuries have not been disclosed out of respect for the victim’s family and to protect the integrity of the investigation.
“We can confirm that the victim is a juvenile. Out of respect for their family and the ongoing investigation, we are unable to share further details about their condition or confirm any other specifics,” added Officer Barner.
Upon receiving reports of the incident, the Cobb County Police Department, in collaboration with the Cobb County School Police, secured the campus and initiated a lockdown to ensure the safety of all students and staff.
Parents were directed to reunite with their children at Leland United Methodist Church at 81 Veterans Memorial Highway, where arrangements were made for an orderly and safe process.
Police and school officials worked closely to manage the situation, and a visible law enforcement presence remains on-site as the investigation continues.
Authorities have not yet released information regarding the circumstances leading to the shooting or the identity of any potential suspects. Law enforcement is actively gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses to determine the events that transpired.
Officer Barner expressed gratitude to the community for their cooperation:
“We are working closely with the Cobb County School Police and will provide updates as more information becomes available. Thank you for your understanding, cooperation, and patience during this time.”
The incident has understandably caused concern among parents and the wider community. The Cobb County School District and local law enforcement are committed to maintaining open lines of communication and ensuring the ongoing safety of students and staff.
Counseling and support services will be made available to students, staff, and families affected by this incident. Authorities have urged anyone with information regarding the shooting to come forward to assist in the investigation.
The Cobb County Police Department and the Cobb County School Police will continue their collaborative efforts to ensure a thorough investigation. Updates on the situation will be shared with the public as they become available.
This tragic event serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of community vigilance and the shared responsibility for ensuring school safety.