The mother of a six-year-old boy, who shot a teacher at Richneck Elementary School in Newport News, Virginia, has been indicted on two charges.
Deja Taylor faces felony child neglect and misdemeanor recklessly leaving a loaded firearm endangering a child, according to the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office. The incident occurred on January 6th, 2023 when the student shot the teacher in a first-grade classroom.
The teacher suffered life-threatening injuries and was hospitalized for nearly two weeks before being discharged. The police have stated that the shooting was not an accident, and the student and teacher knew each other.
Newport News Police Chief Steve Drew has confirmed that the investigation will continue, and the Commonwealth’s Attorney Howard Gwynn has petitioned for a Special Grand Jury to investigate whether security issues may have played a role in the shooting.
Gwynn emphasized the importance of student safety and security and stated that additional charges against other persons could be brought if the Special Grand Jury determines they are responsible under the law.
