Arlington, Texas – The community of Arlington was shaken by a tragic incident on Wednesday afternoon at Bowie High School. Seventeen-year-old Julian Howard stands accused of fatally shooting 18-year-old Etavian Barnes just as the school day was ending. Here’s what we know about the incident:

The Incident

Arlington police reported that Julian Howard allegedly shot Etavian Barnes around 3 p.m. near a portable building on campus. Despite immediate intervention by school resource officers and CPR attempts, Barnes succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. Howard attempted to flee but was apprehended near the baseball field and a parking lot.

Investigation and Charges

Howard faces charges of murder and possession of a controlled substance, as officers found a THC cartridge in his possession. While police believe the two students knew each other, a motive for the shooting remains under investigation. Notably, Howard has not cooperated with investigators, and the weapon used in the shooting has not been recovered.

Community Response

The Arlington community, including school and law enforcement officials, has rallied in response to the tragedy. Arlington ISD is reviewing security footage to determine how the firearm entered the school premises, which already has metal detectors in place.

In a press conference, Arlington Police Chief Al Jones emphasized the importance of community vigilance and responsible gun ownership. FBI Special Agent in Charge Chad Yarbrough echoed this sentiment, stressing the need for community support in preventing such incidents.

School Closure and Support Services

Following the shooting, classes at Bowie High School were canceled for Thursday and Friday. The school will open for a limited time to allow students to retrieve essential items, with counseling services available for both students and staff.

Conclusion: Prioritizing Safety and Support

As Arlington grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy, it underscores the importance of proactive measures to ensure school safety and provide support to those affected. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for community collaboration in preventing violence and promoting responsible firearm practices.

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