Feb 7: 9th Grader Shot In School by Classmate in Alabama

February 7, 2010:  9th Grader Shot, Killed by Classmate at Alabama Middle School

A male ninth grade Discovery Middle School student was shot in the head by a classmate Feb. 5. The alleged shooter has been arrested and charged with murder. The incident occurred just before 2 p.m. in a hallway. According to WHNT News, a school resource officer on campus immediately responded, and firefighters were on the scene within two minutes. The victim, 15-year-old Todd Brown, was then rushed to a local hospital, where he died of his injuries. The campus was placed on lockdown, and at 3 p.m., students were released to their parents. Police are investigating what led to the incident. The shooter has been charged with murder.

A community meeting was held Sunday, Feb. 7, where school officials told attendees that a community support line has been established. It will be staffed by volunteers trained in counseling starting Feb. 8.

Additionally, a number of handouts were distributed on how parents should talk to their children about the tragedy. Links to those handouts can be found at www.madisoncity.k12.al.us. The school system will be setting up a link on its Web site where students, parents, and other concerned citizens can submit suggestions and ideas for the joint task force that will be looking into ways to improve.