Yesterday, a murder-suicide took place in San Bernardino, California at North Park Elementary School. 53-year-old Karen Smith, a teacher at the school, was shot and killed by her 53-year-old husband.
Smith’s husband claimed to be dropping off something to his wife. He went back to her classroom where she was along with a classroom aide and 15 special needs students. Without saying a word, the husband stepped into the classroom, pulled out a Smith and Wesson .357 and fired 10 rounds. He stopped midway through the shooting to reload with a speed loader.
His wife was killed and two students were critically injured before he turned the gun on himself. One of the students, Jonathan Martinez, 8, then died at the hospital.
A 9-year-old boy remained in critical condition.
Last night, a prayer vigil took place at Our Lady of Assumption Church.
Offering prayers for parents & children in San Bernardino. "For families who are hurting..who need love and support. pic.twitter.com/EONZQ1b6Zi
— Paloma Esquivel (@palomaesquivel) April 11, 2017
A message at today's prayer vigil in San Bernardino pic.twitter.com/mCnq5Ohsry
— Paloma Esquivel (@palomaesquivel) April 11, 2017
As of this morning, the 9-year-old who was in critical condition seems to be in good spirits.
“All things considered, he’s in relatively good spirits,” San Bernardino Police Chief Jarrod Burguan said, at a Tuesday morning press conference at police headquarters in downtown San Bernardino.
“He’s up and watching cartoons,” said San Bernardino City Unified Superintendent Dale Marsden.A memorial with candles, flowers and teddy bears was started at the elementary school.
A memorial set up at #NorthParkES for the victims of yesterday's shooting #SanBernardino pic.twitter.com/FCGna22IGg
— John Valenzuela (@jvalenzuelapix) April 11, 2017
Our condolences go out to the family & friends of Jonathan Martinez. A candlelight vigil will be held at North Park at 7 p.m. today. pic.twitter.com/yhYYIt3i7T
— SBCUSD (@SB_CitySchools) April 11, 2017
And a GoFundMe account has been started for the victim.
GoFund Me account raising money for family of 8-year-old killed in San Bernardino shooting https://t.co/7kSxBHOnzv
Now at $25k— Ryan Hagen (@rmhagen) April 11, 2017
GoFundMe team says they've been in contact with the creator of the account for Jonathan and a team will ensure all money goes to the family.
— Ryan Hagen (@rmhagen) April 11, 2017
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