15-year-old student dead after shooting in school bathroom in Maryland; police
HARFORD COUNTY, Md. - One student is dead after a shooting occurred in the boy's bathroom of Joppatowne High School Friday afternoon, according to Harford County officials.
According to police, the shooting occurred in a first-floor bathroom during an altercation and things escalated to a single shot being fired by the suspect. Police say the suspect left the school grounds after the shooting while other individuals took the victim out of the bathroom where nurses attended to him.
The victim was rushed to the hospital following the shooting, and has since died from his injuries, according to officials.
The victim has been identified by police as 15-year-old Warren Grantis, and the suspect is a 16-year-old student. Officials say the suspect was apprehended within minutes of the incident. According to officials, this was the first day of the suspects' attendance at school despite being the fourth day of the school year.
"This is a 16-year-old suspect that we are now not allowed to talk to," said Harford County Sheriff Jeff Gahler.
It was initially reported by school officials that the shooting was an isolated incident on campus. Officials reported a fight breaking out on campus between known parties, and a weapon was being brought onto campus and used in the incident.
We now know that weapon was in fact a gun.
An alert of the incident has been made available on the school's website and homepage.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore released the following statement:
"The First Lady and I are heartbroken for the Joppatowne community as we grieve the loss of a life cut short. Maryland prays for the young victim of this senseless act, Warren Curtis Grant – as well as his family, friends, teachers, mentors, and loved ones.
We are thankful to local authorities, the Maryland State Police, first responders, school staff, and many other leaders for their swift response. I’ve been in touch with Harford County Executive Bob Cassilly, and our administration stands ready to lend full support to authorities as they conduct a thorough investigation into this matter.
Every Marylander deserves to feel safe at school. Our administration will continue to support families, grassroots leaders, local law enforcement, and all of our partners as we work together to keep our schools, our communities, and our entire state safe. May we always remember our solemn obligation to build a better future for our children."
This is a developing story. Stay with FOX 5 DC for more information and updates.