A tragic incident occurred at Joppatowne High School, located northeast of Baltimore, where a 15-year-old student was shot and killed by a peer as the first week of school concluded. Local law enforcement has apprehended a 16-year-old suspect who is expected to be charged as an adult.
The shooting took place shortly after noon in a bathroom on the first floor of the school, which serves a community of just over 13,000 residents. The victim, identified as Waren Curtis Grant, was transported by air to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Authorities stated that the suspect’s identity will be revealed only after formal charges are filed. The Harford County Sheriff, Jeff Gahler, noted that the suspect was captured within minutes of the shooting, thanks to assistance from community members, although it was not disclosed whether these individuals were fellow students.
Principal Melissa Williams expressed her condolences during a news conference, highlighting the impact on the school community and emphasizing the strength and solidarity of Joppatowne. Many students assisted in getting the victim help as he was moved from the bathroom to the hallway, where school nurses and first responders were waiting.
Emergency personnel responded quickly, with deputies arriving on the scene mere minutes after the incident. Investigators believe only one shot was fired during the altercation. The sheriff’s office is working with the State Attorney’s Office to prepare charges against the suspect, but interviews have not been conducted yet due to legal constraints.
Superintendent of Harford County Public Schools, Dr. Sean W. Bulson, called the shooting a devastating start to the school year and promised extensive support for students and staff returning to school. Plans for the school’s operations on Monday are still being determined, with updates expected by Saturday.
Community members gathered at Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church to reunite with students, and Bulson thanked the church for its support during the crisis. The weapon used in the incident has not yet been recovered.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore addressed the tragedy in a statement, expressing his heartbreak for the community and extending prayers for the victim, Waren Curtis Grant, along with his family and loved ones.