In a courtroom in Virginia, a teacher is seeking $40 million in damages after a young student shot her in class. The incident, which happened in January 2023, has sparked a heated legal battle. The teacher, Abby Zwerner, took the stand to share her harrowing experience and the events leading up to the shooting.

Zwerner revealed that she first heard about the gun from a colleague, Amy Kovac, who had been told by students that the child, referred to as JT, had a gun in his backpack. Zwerner trusted Kovac to handle the situation and didn't take further action herself. Kovac searched the backpack during recess but didn't find a gun, which she reported to the assistant principal, Ebony Parker.

The defense questioned Zwerner's actions, or lack thereof, on the day of the shooting. They argued that Zwerner didn't speak to the students who reported the gun, didn't search JT's backpack herself, and didn't remove him from the classroom. Zwerner explained that she relied on Kovac's experience and didn't feel the need to intervene further.

The civil complaint alleges that Parker acted negligently and failed to protect Zwerner's safety. The defense, however, argued that Zwerner didn't establish that Parker had a duty to protect her. The judge denied their motion to strike, stating that the jury would decide the outcome.

The incident has raised questions about school safety and the responsibilities of school staff. Both Zwerner and Parker have resigned from their positions. Parker is also facing criminal charges related to the incident.

The trial is ongoing, with the defense set to call their witnesses next. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for school safety policies and procedures.

CIVIL TRIAL

A Teacher's Fight for Justice After a Shocking School Incident

Continue reading...