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According to WBAL, three teenagers were wounded in a shooting outside Carver Vocational Technical High School located at 2201 Presstman St, Baltimore, MD 21216. The incident occurred around the time classes were starting, adding to the growing concern of youth violence in the city.
The incident took place at approximately 7:50 a.m. on Friday, October 27, 2023, when a 15-year-old male was brought to the school by his parents with the intent to assault someone.
According to eyewitnesses and local law enforcement, both the parents and the 15-year-old suspect actively participated in the assault, during which the teenager pistol-whipped the unidentified victim. However, as the assailant attempted to flee the scene, he unexpectedly encountered another 15-year-old Carver student at the front of the school, leading to a chaotic exchange of gunfire.
The ensuing gunfire left both 15-year-olds injured, along with an uninvolved 16-year-old Carver student who happened to be in the vicinity. Police authorities have confirmed that all three injured students received medical attention and are currently being treated for their wounds. Although the injuries sustained are serious, the medical team is optimistic about their recoveries.
In a surprising twist, a third student managed to retrieve one of the firearms involved in the altercation and fled the scene before law enforcement arrived. This individual's identity remains undisclosed at this time, and authorities are actively searching for their whereabouts.
Law enforcement swiftly responded to the incident, apprehending all five individuals involved, including the parents and the third student who absconded with the weapon. They are currently in police custody and are being questioned regarding their roles in the altercation. Charges against the parents are pending as investigators work to gather further evidence and statements from witnesses.
Following the incident, worried parents gathered outside the school, anxiously awaiting information about their children's safety. Many expressed their frustration and despair, stating that the trauma of yet another shooting involving Baltimore's youth was overwhelming. As a result, school officials made the decision to dismiss students early, with classes ending at 10:30 a.m.
Shameka White, one of the concerned parents, expressed her distress, stating that she had managed to have her son dismissed from school but was still waiting for her younger sister. She voiced her frustration at the lack of information provided by school administrators regarding her sister's whereabouts inside the building.
Baltimore City Schools spokesperson Sherry Christian assured the public that officials had already contacted the parents of the wounded students earlier in the day. Additionally, automated phone calls and emails were sent to all Carver parents to notify them of the early dismissal. Two of the victims were identified as students at the school and were transported to the hospital by ambulance, while the third victim sought medical attention by walking in.
The area surrounding Carver Vocational Technical High School was cordoned off with yellow crime tape as investigators diligently worked to gather evidence and piece together the sequence of events.
Carver Vocational Technical High School is situated in a West Baltimore neighborhood that has long grappled with cycles of poverty, disinvestment, and violence. Another shooting incident occurred in September 2022, also outside Carver, resulting in another student's injury.
In the wake of the recent shooting outside a Baltimore high school, questions arise about holding schools accountable for student safety and seeking justice for survivors and their families. In this exclusive interview, Attorney Aaron Blank, Esq., a distinguished Maryland-based gun violence attorney, sheds light on the possibility of pursuing civil lawsuits against negligent schools. Gain valuable insights into the path to justice, the elements required for such cases, and the importance of legal representation. Join us as we explore how survivors and their families can navigate the legal process and work towards a safer future.
Darla Medina: Thank you for joining us, Mr. Blank.
Aaron Blank: Thank you, Darla. I appreciate the opportunity to shed light on this important topic.
Darla Medina: In light of the recent shooting outside Carver Vocational Technical High School, many families are concerned with the option to seek justice following a shooting at a high school. Can you explain how civil lawsuits can provide a path to justice in these cases?
Aaron Blank: Certainly, Darla. Civil lawsuits can be a means for school shooting survivors and their families to hold negligent schools accountable for their actions or lack thereof. In instances where the school fails to provide adequate security measures, neglects to respond to warning signs, or fails to implement proper safety protocols, they may be held liable for the harm caused by the shooting.
Darla Medina: What are some key elements that need to be established in these civil cases?
Aaron Blank: In these types of cases, it's crucial to establish negligence on the part of the school. This typically involves demonstrating that the school had a duty to protect its students, breached that duty through their actions or inaction, and that this breach directly resulted in the harm suffered by the survivors or their families. Additionally, it's important to show the damages incurred as a result of the shooting, both physical and emotional.
Darla Medina: How can survivors and their families initiate a civil lawsuit against a negligent school?
Aaron Blank: To initiate a civil lawsuit, survivors and their families should consult with an experienced attorney who specializes in school shootings and gun violence cases. The attorney will assess the details of the incident, gather evidence, and guide them through the legal process. It's important to note that each case is unique, and an attorney can provide personalized advice based on the specific circumstances.
Darla Medina: Are there any recent precedents or successful cases in Maryland that can serve as examples?
Aaron Blank: While I can't discuss specific ongoing cases, there have been instances across the country where survivors and families have sought justice through civil lawsuits against negligent schools. These cases have highlighted the need for schools to prioritize student safety and have resulted in changes to policies and security measures. It's an ongoing battle, but progress is being made.
Darla Medina: Lastly, what message would you like to convey to the survivors and families affected by school shootings?
Aaron Blank: I want them to know that they are not alone in their pursuit of justice. Civil lawsuits can provide an avenue to hold accountable those who failed to protect them. It's important to reach out to an attorney who can provide guidance and support during this challenging time. Together, we can work towards a safer future for all students.
Darla Medina: Thank you, Attorney Aaron Blank, Esq., for sharing your insights on this crucial matter. We hope this information will be helpful to those seeking justice in the aftermath of school shootings.
Aaron Blank: Thank you, Darla. It's been a privilege to discuss this important topic with you.
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