A Virginia teacher who was shot by her 6-year-old student is suing the school district, seeking $40 million in damages.
The teacher, Abigail Zwerner, was shot in the chest on January 6, 2023, at Richneck Elementary School in Newport News. The student, who has not been identified, brought a gun to school and shot Zwerner during class.
Zwerner, who is 25 years old, underwent surgery and was released from the hospital a few days later. She has since returned to work, but she says she is still traumatized by the shooting.
In her lawsuit, Zwerner alleges that the school district was negligent in allowing the student to bring a gun to school. She also alleges that the school district failed to properly train its staff on how to handle dangerous situations.
The school district has not yet responded to the lawsuit. The shooting at Richneck Elementary School is one of several recent incidents of gun violence in schools across the United States. In the wake of these shootings, there has been a renewed debate about gun control and school safety.
Zwerner's lawsuit is likely to add to the debate about gun violence in schools. The lawsuit could also have implications for other school districts across the country.
If Zwerner is successful in her lawsuit, it could set a precedent for other teachers who have been injured in school shootings. It could also lead to changes in the way that schools are required to protect their students from gun violence.
The shooting at Richneck Elementary School is a tragedy. It is a reminder of the dangers that students face in schools across the United States. Zwerner's lawsuit is a step towards ensuring that schools are safe for all students.