The Reno Police Department announced today that a Hug High School student was shot by a Washoe County School District police officer.
The 14-year-old male student is in critical condition at a local hospital.
According to Reno Police Department Public Information Officer Tim Broadway, “it was discovered that a 14 year old male student was armed with at least one knife and was threatening other students. A Washoe County School District Police Officer responded to the fight and the 14-year-old failed to follow the verbal commands of the Officer.
“The Officer discharged his service weapon, striking the student, and stopping the threat,” Broadway added.
The school was on lockdown for hours while other officers ensured there were no other threats. Broadway said that no other students or officers were injured.
Reno Police will investigate the incident with assistance from Sparks Police and the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office.
School Superintendent Traci Davis said that classes resume normally tomorrow, Thursday.
“Procter Hug High School was immediately placed in a Code Red Lockdown, and officers began a classroom-by-classroom canvass of the school in an effort to find witnesses and any other potential victims in the case,” she said. “The District reached out to families via the Connect Ed call system with information about the incident, the lockdown, and the fact that the school was secured during the investigation.”
The circumstances surrounding the shooting and knife-wielding were not announced. Some media are reporting the student had been bullied. A YouTube video shows the student approaching other students with the knife: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UwaEp0e7CKA
“Our hearts go out to the students, staff, families impacted, and we stand ready to assist them in any way needed,” David added.
ThisisReno photojournalist Ty O’Neil was on scene and took the photos below. The UK’s Daily Mail, and many other media, published a photo of the boy who was shot. It may be viewed here: http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2016/12/07/23/3B28438700000578-0-image-a-19_1481154200834.jpg
