A Virginia teacher who was shot by a 6-year-old student asserted in court that she did not isolate the child on the day of the incident. Meanwhile, two defense experts contended that the actions of the school’s former principal were justified.
In a video affidavit, former first-grade teacher Abigail Zwirner responded to a question about feeling isolated during the class on January 6, 2023, saying, “No.” Zwirner has initiated a $40 million negligence lawsuit against the former assistant principal of Rich Neck Elementary School, Ebony Parker. She claims that Parker failed to act on repeated warnings that the boy might have brought a 9mm handgun to school.
The student opened fire in the class, with the bullet striking Zwirner’s left hand and then penetrating her chest, narrowly missing her heart.
Forensic psychologist Dr. Lee Hagan testified about the standards applied by experts in legal evaluations. He noted the importance of assessing all available information and recognizing gaps that could influence their opinions.
The defense also called on Dr. Amy Klinger, a school safety expert, who stated that, in her view, Parker acted within professional standards and was not indifferent to Zwirner’s situation on that day. Klinger believed that the decision to delay searching the child was reasonable, explaining that staff should not undertake physical examinations of young children without sufficient justification.
Klinger remarked that after reviewing available records, it was clear that no one could have anticipated the child’s actions. Her testimony highlighted that the responses indicated a lack of perceived imminent threat.
During cross-examination, Klinger dismissed Parker’s claim of inaction while concerns were raised, stating, “I can’t say she didn’t get up from her chair.” She also indicated that there was no proof that Zwirner had secured the students prior to the shooting or promptly notified administration of serious threats.
Previously, Zwirner shared the lasting emotional impact of the shooting, recalling feeling as if she might die, vividly stating, “The last thing I remember from school was thinking I was dying.”
The lawyers for the Newport News School Board argue that the shooting was an unpredictable act by a young child and assert that Parker’s actions were sound and appropriate.
In a separate matter, Parker faces criminal charges involving child neglect related to the incident, while the boy’s mother is currently serving a two-year sentence after being convicted of federal firearms and child abandonment charges.
