Lawsuit After Teacher Shot by Student
A $40 million lawsuit concerning a Virginia teacher shot by a 6-year-old student is centered on the question of who should have verified a classmate’s report about the child carrying a gun.
Abby Zwerner, who was wounded and has a bullet lodged in her chest, claims that former assistant principal Ebony Parker did not take action despite multiple warnings that a troubled boy had brought his mother’s handgun to class in Newport News, Virginia.
The trial, which progresses after four days of testimony, saw Zwerner recount the moment she was shot in a classroom on January 6, 2023. She described her experience, believing she was “dying” and heading “to heaven.”
Jurors are expected to begin deliberations on Wednesday afternoon.
Throughout the initial three-day trial, which kicked off on October 28, Zwerner’s defense team called on 16 witnesses, including school staff, local police, healthcare professionals, and family members.
Parker’s attorney presented one medical expert and one safety expert, arguing that Parker’s response to the situation was appropriate. However, it’s worth noting that Parker, who also faces child neglect charges related to the incident, did not testify during her defense.
Zwerner concluded her testimony by recounting the moment she saw a student raise a gun and shoot. “I thought I was going to die,” she said softly. “I thought I was either on my way to heaven or I was already there. But then it got dark, and I realized I wasn’t ready to go.”
At just 25 years old and with only two and a half years of teaching experience, Zwerner shared how the incident has severely impacted her, making everyday tasks like opening water bottles and chip bags incredibly difficult. Additionally, she stated that it’s challenging for her to leave her house and build relationships now.
In her lawsuit, Zwerner accuses Parker of gross negligence, claiming she ignored alarms raised by others about the potential danger posed by the student.
Another teacher, Jennifer West, testified that a student told her the boy had a gun and made threats. West relayed the information, but counselor Loronzo Rowles said they couldn’t search the boy. Rowles claimed she expressed concern over the weapon but was told to wait for the boy’s mother before taking action.
Expert Amy Kobach mentioned that she asked the child to check her backpack, but the response was evasive, and any concerns she raised were disregarded by Parker.
Kobach and West heard a gunshot later that day and immediately recognized it as coming from the boy.
Two doctors testified that due to complications, Zwerner could not have the bullet safely removed and that shrapnel remains in her body. She has undergone six surgeries to date, the latest one for her hand in April.
A psychiatrist discussed his evaluation of Zwerner, diagnosing her with post-traumatic stress disorder and indicating ongoing treatment, including therapy and medication, would be necessary.
Zwerner’s family provided testimony reflecting the toll the incident has taken on her spirit. Her mother, Julie, noted her daughter’s disinterest in continuing teaching and expressed concern about her overall happiness. Her twin sister, Hannah, described Zwerner as more withdrawn, noting, “She’s not who she used to be. It’s like she’s lost in a manner of speaking.”
The child involved has not faced any criminal charges. His mother, Dejah Taylor, received a two-year prison sentence in 2023 for child neglect after the boy took a 9mm handgun from her purse. Parker is due to face a separate criminal trial next month and has pleaded not guilty.
