Alexander Sammon
Updated on: October 9, 2024 2:52 pm GMT
Teenager Critically Injured in Omaha Northwest High School Shooting
Omaha, NE — A teenage boy is in critical condition following a shooting at Northwest High School on Tuesday, October 24, 2023. The incident, which has left the community in shock, prompted a lockdown of the school and nearby institutions as police launched an investigation into the event.
Shooting Incident Details
The shooting was reported at approximately 12:25 p.m. local time at the school located near 82nd Street and Crown Point Avenue. Initial reports indicated that a 15-year-old boy sustained a gunshot wound to the stomach. Emergency medical personnel quickly transported him to a local hospital, where he remains in critical condition.
Lockdown Procedures and Police Response
In the immediate aftermath of the shooting, Northwest High School was placed on lockdown, as were Marian High School and Roncalli Catholic High School, in response to the potential threat. Omaha police detailed their response efforts via social media, confirming that the scene was secure by 1:06 p.m. and that there was no active threat to public safety.
- 12:30 p.m. — Reports of the shooting surface, prompting school lockdown.
- 12:44 p.m. — Douglas County medical personnel confirm the seriousness of the boy’s injuries.
- 12:50 p.m. — Police advise concerned parents to go to designated areas for reunification with their children.
Details About the Suspect
As of the latest updates, Omaha police are actively searching for a young suspect connected to the shooting. Although a description has not yet been released, eyewitness accounts and police scanner transmissions suggest that another young male was seen running from the school following the incident.
Community Reaction and Support
In the wake of the shooting, families of students gathered near the school, anxiously awaiting updates and reunification with their loved ones. Emotional scenes unfolded in the parking lot as parents embraced their children, grateful for their safety but worried for the injured student.
Statements from Officials
Officials from Omaha Public Schools acknowledged the gravity of the situation, stating that they are cooperating fully with law enforcement and working diligently to keep parents informed with the latest information. The school district communicated that a designated reunification area for parents would be established at the football stadium west of Northwest High School.
Next Steps in the Investigation
As this story continues to unfold, law enforcement remains on high alert within the community. Parents and students are encouraged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities. Police have not yet specified when the lockdown will be lifted or when classes will resume at the affected schools.
Support Resources for Affected Families
In light of this distressing event, mental health resources will be made available to support students and families affected by the shooting. The school district is committed to providing resources to help those struggling with the emotional toll of such incidents.
Further Updates
This is an ongoing situation, and officials are expected to release more information as it becomes available. Parents are encouraged to stay informed through reliable news sources and the Omaha Public Schools’ official communication channels.
For continuous updates on this developing story, visit KETV NewsWatch 7.
The community is hurting after the shooting, and it’s really important to focus on keeping everyone safe and helping all the students feel supported during this tough time.
