In the wake of the tragic shooting incident outside Bowie High School in Arlington, a somber scene unfolds as a considerable queue of parents remains at a reunification center, yearning for the opportunity to embrace their children once more.
Seventeen-year-old Julian Howard has been apprehended and formally charged with murder, according to records from the Arlington Jail.
Upon receiving reports of gunfire outside the portable buildings on the school campus, Arlington Police Chief Al Jones revealed that officers discovered the victim, Etavion Barnes, unresponsive on the ground. Despite prompt efforts to save him, Barnes succumbed to his injuries upon arrival at the hospital.
Expressing profound sorrow over the outcome, Chief Jones conveyed condolences to the Bowie High School community and underscored the imperative of standing firm against violence both in neighborhoods and schools. The suspect, a fellow student, was swiftly taken into custody near the school premises.
As investigations continue, Jones stressed the community’s intolerance toward such acts of violence, emphasizing their unwavering commitment to maintaining safe learning environments within schools.
In the aftermath of the incident, police are facilitating the reunification of students with their families, with a dedicated center established at the Arlington ISD Athletics and Aquatics Center. Overflow parking is available at lot 11 at AT&T Stadium.
Reflecting on the tragedy, Arlington ISD Superintendent Dr. Matt Smith expressed his disbelief, lamenting the disruption of a school environment meant for learning and growth. Classes at Bowie High School are canceled for Thursday, April 25, allowing time for the community to come to terms with the shocking events that transpired.
Amidst the grief and anguish, the community stands united in mourning the loss of young life and grappling with the profound impact of senseless violence within their midst.
