A 15-year-old student shot a teacher at a Texas high school before fatally shooting himself, authorities confirmed on Monday. The incident occurred at Hill Country College Preparatory High School in San Antonio, with no other injuries reported.
Details of the Shooting Incident
The Comal County Sheriff’s Office stated that the male student died at the scene from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The teacher was transported to a hospital, but their condition remains unclear as officials have not provided an update. The sheriff's office has not disclosed any potential motives or circumstances leading to the shooting.
School Lockdown and Student Accounts
The school announced on social media that it was placed on lockdown at 8:34 a.m. According to the online bell schedule, classes were scheduled to begin at 8:55 a.m. Students described hearing loud bangs and screaming from a second-floor room, with one reporting five shots and yelling before a debate teacher instructed students to seek shelter in a classroom.
Aftermath and Parental Concerns
Students were evacuated by bus to a nearby middle school, where parents formed long lines, some praying, as they awaited reunification. Jesse Lopez, a parent, expressed concern about his daughter, who has autism, returning to school. "She’ll be afraid to go back, she’ll be real afraid to go back," Lopez told KSAT-TV.
School Background and Curriculum
Hill Country College Preparatory High School, part of the Comal Independent School District, focuses on preparing students for college through a STEAM curriculum—science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. Electives include cybersecurity and engineering. The school opened in August 2020 with a freshman class and has since expanded to serve grades nine through 12, with approximately 260 students enrolled this school year.
Mental Health Resources
If you are in the USA and need mental health assistance, call the National Suicide Prevention Helpline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), a free and confidential service available 24/7. For international support, visit www.befrienders.org to find a local helpline.
