15-Year-Old Student Fatally Shot at Joppatowne High School; Suspect in Custody

JOPPATOWNE, Md. — A tragic shooting at Joppatowne High School has left a 15-year-old student dead, sending shockwaves through the community. Harford County Sheriff Jeff Gahler identified the victim as Warren Curtis Grant, a resident of Edgewood. The incident occurred around 12:36 PM, prompting an immediate response from law enforcement. Initial reports suggested an active shooter, but authorities later clarified that the shooting involved two students.

The altercation took place in a school bathroom, where a 16-year-old student, who was attending his first day at Joppatowne High School, fired a single gunshot at Grant. School nurses quickly attended to the wounded student, and Grant was rushed to the hospital. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, Grant tragically succumbed to his injuries.

Harford County Public Schools Superintendent Sean Bulson expressed deep sorrow and extended condolences to the family of the victim. “Such tragedies should never occur in schools,” Bulson stated, reflecting the deep sadness and concern felt across the school district.

Following the shooting, the 16-year-old suspect fled the scene but was apprehended within minutes at a nearby apartment complex. However, the firearm used in the shooting has not yet been recovered. Authorities are actively searching for the weapon as they continue their investigation into the incident.

The suspect, whose identity has not been released due to his age, will be charged as an adult. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear and is under investigation. Sheriff Gahler revealed that the suspect was known to law enforcement and had been involved in previous incidents. While the sheriff could not confirm if the suspect had a formal juvenile criminal record, he acknowledged that there had been multiple reports and investigations involving the individual.

The death of Warren Curtis Grant has left Joppatowne High School and the surrounding community in mourning. Students, parents, and staff are grappling with the shock and grief of losing a young life in a place meant to be safe. In response, the school district is providing counseling and support services to help students and staff cope with the traumatic event.

This incident has once again highlighted the urgent need for measures to prevent gun violence in schools. Community leaders and parents are calling for enhanced safety protocols and mental health support to address the root causes of such tragedies.

As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information regarding the shooting or the location of the weapon to come forward. The community is united in its call for justice for Warren Curtis Grant and is committed to ensuring that schools remain safe havens for all students.