Arlington, Texas – A tragic incident unfolded at James Bowie High School, where an 18-year-old student named Etavion Barnes was fatally shot on Wednesday afternoon by a fellow peer, leading to a lockdown and a thorough investigation by the police department.
According to authorities, school resource officers discovered Barnes lying unresponsive on the ground near a portable building after reports of gunshots around 2:50 p.m. on the campus. Despite their efforts to provide life-saving measures, Barnes succumbed to his injuries. The alleged shooter, a 17-year-old, was swiftly apprehended in the vicinity without any resistance.
The police, in collaboration with the school staff, promptly secured the crime scene, ultimately leading to the identification of the suspect and his arrest. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, although it has been confirmed that both the victim and the alleged perpetrator were students at Bowie High School and acquainted with each other.
In light of the tragedy, the school was placed on immediate lockdown as a precautionary measure, urging the community to refrain from visiting the premises. As the investigation unfolded, students and staff were moved to a designated reunification center under the supervision of the authorities. Chief of Police Al Jones emphasized the importance of maintaining a safe environment in schools, reiterating that violence is never the solution.
Following the tragic event, Bowie High School announced the cancellation of classes for students the following day, extending support through counseling services to aid in the healing process and provide comfort to the affected students and families. The alumni of Bowie High School expressed their condolences and prayers for the victim and the community, reflecting on the impact of the incident and showing solidarity during this difficult time.
As investigations continue and the community grapples with the aftermath of the shooting, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of ensuring safety and security within educational institutions to protect the students and uphold a conducive environment for learning and growth.