NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — A 15-year-old boy died after he was shot at a school bus stop Tuesday morning in Newport News' Southeast neighborhood.
In a message sent to parents, Menchville High School’s principal confirmed the shooting victim was one of their students.
The Newport News Police Department (NNPD) said officers responded to a ShotSpotter activation near the 1200 block of 16th Street near Garden Drive around 6:18 a.m. They arrived to find a teenage boy who had been shot. He was transported to a nearby hospital with life-threatening injuries where he later died.
"A family has lost a loved one. A city lost a young man, my heart goes out to the individuals in this community. It’s just tragic, I don’t know if there are words to describe this," Police Chief Steve Drew said.
Nearby neighbors say they heard as many as five rounds near a corner where there are usually more than a dozen kids waiting for pickup.
"I'm like, oh my Lord... it touched my heart," said neighbor Shirley Holley. "A youth trying to go to school and he’s gunned down. It’s sad.”
Chief Drew added that he doesn't believe this to be a random act of violence.
Later Tuesday morning, Newport News Mayor Phillip Jones offered his deep sorrow and condolences to the victim's family, saying: "Today our community was struck by a senseless tragedy. A young boy's life has been cut short, and my heart aches for his family and loved ones during this unimaginable time. Words cannot fully convey the grief we feel.”
“Especially 15 years old, they haven’t even begun life yet," City Council member John Eley told 13News Now.
A joint statement from Newport News Public Schools and the Newport News School Board read:
"The Newport News Public Schools family extends our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of the Menchville High School student who tragically lost his life today. The School Board, Superintendent and administrative team will continue to support the family and our students and staff through the difficult days ahead.
"Losses like this can be hard to comprehend and process. The school division recognizes that students and staff will need additional support and reassurance. Members of the school division’s support and response team will be available to meet and talk with Menchville High students and staff for as long as they are needed. Support services are available at all schools.
"We encourage our families and staff to take advantage of these services and to continue to support one another."
Police have not named any suspects or what may have led to the shooting at this time. Detectives are still investigating this incident.
If you have any information about this shooting, you are urged to call the Crime Line at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP (1-888-562-5887) or submit information online at P3Tips.com.