LANHAM, MD – A student from DuVal High School in Lanham, Maryland, tragically lost her life in a shooting incident that occurred on Monday afternoon. The incident led to a nearly two-hour lockdown at DuVal and another nearby educational institution. The victim, whose identity and age have not been disclosed, was rushed to a hospital in a critical state, where she later succumbed to her injuries. Local residents informed that the victim was a 16-year-old girl. As of now, there is no information available about the suspect or suspects involved in the shooting.
The unfortunate incident took place around 3:30 p.m. near the intersection of Palamar Drive and Woodstream Drive, in close proximity to DuVal High School. According to the police, the shooting was a result of a dispute between two groups, during which the victim was hit. The authorities believe that the girl was not the intended target of the shooting.
At the time of the incident, DuVal and another nearby school, Robert Goddard Montessori School, were open for after-school activities. Both schools were put on lockdown for nearly two hours while the police conducted a search for the suspect. The lockdown was lifted shortly before 5:15 p.m. In the aftermath of the shooting, personal belongings, including a school-issued computer case, were found scattered at the scene.
Superintendent Millard House II announced that security enhancements at DuVal High School, which were already scheduled as part of the second round of security upgrades for schools, would now be expedited. The Prince George’s County police have stated that the investigation is ongoing. Detectives are still working to identify the suspect or suspects and establish a motive.
Witnesses and students who may have seen the shooting and fled the scene in fear are being urged to come forward with any information they may have. The school district has announced that grief counselors and mental health professionals will be available on the DuVal campus on Tuesday to provide support to students and staff as they cope with the loss.
The incident occurred just two weeks after the start of the school year, which began on August 28 for all public school students in the county. The school district extended their deepest condolences to the student’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult time.