Abigail Zwerner, the Virginia teacher shot by a six-year-old student, testified she did not isolate the boy from her class on the day of the shooting. Her statement came during a civil trial where she alleges negligence on the part of a former school administrator.
Zwerner is seeking $40 million in damages from Ebony Parker, the former assistant principal of Richneck Elementary. The lawsuit centers on accusations that Parker disregarded multiple warnings about the possibility of the young boy bringing a handgun to school.
The shooting itself was a horrific event; a 9-millimeter bullet ripped through Zwerner’s hand and lodged in her chest, narrowly missing her heart. The bullet remains there to this day, a constant reminder of the trauma she endured.
During a video deposition, Zwerner directly answered the crucial question regarding isolation: “No.” This detail is central to her claim that Parker’s inaction contributed to the devastating outcome.
The defense presented Dr. Leigh Hagan, a forensic psychologist, who emphasized the importance of considering all available information and identifying missing evidence when evaluating cases involving legal implications. A thorough assessment, he implied, is paramount.
Dr. Amy Klinger, a national school-safety expert, testified that Parker acted reasonably and did not breach professional standards. She argued that Parker’s response was not indifferent to Zwerner’s safety.
Klinger specifically addressed the decision to delay a search of the child, stating it was “appropriately cautious.” She highlighted the age of the student, emphasizing the unacceptability of conducting body searches on a six-year-old without substantial justification.
According to Klinger, the available evidence made it “difficult for anyone to have foreseen” the boy’s actions. She asserted that the behaviors observed did not indicate a “plausible, imminent threat.”
Klinger refuted claims that Parker remained inactive during the unfolding events, stating she “provided assistance when it was asked for.” She challenged the narrative of complete inaction.
The defense also pointed out a lack of evidence showing Zwerner had secured her students or immediately alerted administrators to a serious issue before the shooting occurred. This detail aims to contextualize the events leading up to the tragedy.
Zwerner previously testified about the profound emotional and psychological impact of the shooting, recalling a terrifying moment where she believed she was dying. She described a descent into darkness, questioning whether she was entering heaven.
The school board’s legal team maintains the shooting was an unforeseeable act committed by a young child. They argue Parker’s actions were measured and appropriate given the circumstances.
Parker faces a separate criminal trial on eight felony counts of child neglect, one for each bullet that put students in danger. The charges reflect the gravity of the situation and the potential consequences of her actions.
The boy’s mother, Deja Taylor, is currently serving a two-year prison sentence after pleading guilty to federal gun and child neglect charges, acknowledging her role in the events that led to the shooting.
