Photo: The Washington Post / Contributor via Getty Images
  /  03.11.2023

The 6-year-old accused of shooting his first grade teacher in January will not face aggravated assault charges, according to Newport News Commonwealth’s Attorney Howard Gwynn, who spoke with NBC News earlier this week.

As previously reported by REVOLT, the child is accused of critically wounding Abigail Zwerner in the chest on Jan. 6 after the two were involved in a dispute inside a classroom at Richneck Elementary School in Newport News, Virginia. On Wednesday (March 8), Gwynn said the “prospect that a 6-year-old can stand trial is problematic” as part of his office’s rationale for not pursuing charges. He also cited that the young elementary school student lacked the competency to understand the legal system.

However, charges can still be brought against other adults who may possibly be connected to the incident. “Our objective is not just to do something as quickly as possible. Once we analyze all the facts, we will charge any person or persons that we believe we can prove beyond a reasonable doubt committed a crime,” said Gwynn.

In the wake of the shooting, Zwerner and other teachers’ concerns about the child were brought to light. According to multiple reports, the little boy had a history of problematic behavior that raised red flags among the faculty. He is accused of trying to whip classmates with his belt, choking a teacher until she could not breathe, cursing and throwing items such as chairs and Zwerner’s phone.

It was also revealed that three teachers warned administrators that the pupil may have brought a weapon to school moments before he used the 9mm gun to injure the 25-year-old instructor. Michelle Price, a spokesperson for the Newport News school district, confirmed the child’s backpack was searched but the firearm was not located. In late January, attorney Diane Toscano, who represents Zwerner, announced plans to file suit against the district.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

View More

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

View More

Trending

B. Simone vs. Desi Banks | 'Receipts'

On this episode of “Receipts,” Desi Banks puts his friendship with comedian and entrepreneur B. Simone to the test when they battle it out to guess contestant Darrius’ hidden talent. Presented by Walmart.

  /  05.16.2023

Desi Banks vs. Eric Bellinger | 'Receipts'

Get ready for “Receipts,” the all-new game show brought to you by REVOLT and Walmart where contestants battle it out to reveal a Black and Unlimited shopper’s hidden talent from clues on their shopping receipt! For the premiere, host Desi Banks goes three rounds with the one and only Eric Bellinger. Watch!

 

 

  /  05.09.2023

B. Simone and Desi Banks go head-to-head on “Receipts” game show

After a few pleasantries, Desi Banks and B. Simone dived right into the first round of gameplay – and it was hilarious from beginning to end.

  /  05.16.2023

Eric Bellinger stars in premiere episode of REVOLT’s new game show “Receipts”

REVOLT and Walmart are spotlighting everyday Black shoppers with unexpected talents on the new show.

  /  05.09.2023
View More