Crime
Video shows moments shots fired near Newburgh Free Academy
On Tuesday, a lockout was implemented at Newburgh Free Academy (NFA) after reports of gunfire in the vicinity of the school, according to a statement issued by the district.
The district confirmed that the lockout, initiated as a precautionary measure, lasted approximately 10 minutes.
The incident occurred near the school around dismissal time.
While initial reports indicate shots were fired following an assault, both incidents were partially captured on cell phone video.
Fortunately, there were no reported injuries related to the shooting or the subsequent lockout.
In a message to parents and the community, the district expressed gratitude for the swift response from local law enforcement and emphasized its ongoing collaboration with authorities.
โThe district is thankful for the quick response of local law enforcement and will continue to collaborate with them to assist in their investigation. The investigation is still ongoing, and no further information will be released at this time.โ
The quick implementation of the lockout ensured the safety of students and staff while authorities assessed the situation.
The lockout was lifted after it was deemed safe, and normal operations resumed.
The district and law enforcement agencies continue to work together to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
As of now, no further details have been released. Community members are urged to report any relevant information to assist in the ongoing investigation.
This incident underscores the importance of vigilance and the value of effective coordination between schools and local law enforcement to ensure safety in the face of potential threats.
Crime
17-Year-Old Javohn Pitts Critically Injured in Accidental Shooting During FaceTime Call in Elsmere, Kentucky
A 17-year-old teenager, identified as Javohn Pitts, remains in critical condition after being shot in the head during an incident involving a handgun at a residence in Elsmere, Kentucky, on Saturday. Police say the shooting appears to have occurred while two juveniles were showing the firearm to others during a FaceTime call.
The incident prompted an emergency response in Northern Kentucky and left the teenager with potentially life-threatening injuries. He was transported by helicopter to a Cincinnati hospital, where he continues to receive medical treatment.
According to the Elsmere Police Department, officers were dispatched to a reported shooting in the 100 block of Garvey Avenue early Saturday afternoon.
When first responders arrived, they found Javohn Pitts suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. Due to the seriousness of his injuries, emergency personnel arranged for him to be airlifted to University of Cincinnati Medical Center.
Pitts remains hospitalized in critical condition, according to the information provided by police. Authorities have not released further details about his medical condition or prognosis.
During their investigation, police recovered a 9mm handgun from the residence.
Investigators believe the shooting happened while Pitts and another juvenile, who was acquainted with him, were displaying the handgun to other people during a FaceTime call. At some point during the incident, the firearm discharged, striking Pitts in the head.
Although the incident is being described as an apparent accidental shooting, authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the discharge and the events leading up to it.
A juvenile suspect was subsequently arrested in connection with the incident. Police reported that the suspect was acquainted with Pitts and has been charged with second-degree assault with a deadly weapon.
Because the individual is a juvenile, authorities have not publicly released the suspectโs identity.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional information about the incident may be released as authorities continue reviewing the evidence.
Police are asking anyone who may have information about the shooting to contact the Kenton County Emergency Communication Center at 859-356-3191 or the Elsmere Police Department at 859-474-4785.
Information from witnesses or anyone familiar with the circumstances may help investigators establish a clearer account of what happened inside the Garvey Avenue residence.
At just 17 years old, Javohn Pitts is facing a serious medical battle following the shooting. His critical condition has left those who care about him hoping for positive news as he receives treatment.
The incident is also a sobering reminder of the dangers associated with handling firearms, particularly when a weapon is displayed or handled without proper safety precautions. A firearm can discharge unexpectedly, with consequences that may permanently change lives.
As the investigation continues, thoughts remain with Javohn Pitts, his family, and everyone hoping for his recovery. May he receive the care and support he needs during this difficult time.