Arlington, Texas – Mothers of gun violence victims are urging students at Bowie High School to speak out following the tragic shooting that claimed the life of an 18-year-old on campus. The school remained closed on Thursday as authorities investigated the incident and announced that classes would not resume until Monday.
The shooting occurred on Wednesday afternoon when Etavion Barnes was fatally shot outside a portable classroom building, prompting the high school to go on lockdown. Police were able to locate a suspect matching the description provided shortly after the incident, leading to the arrest of 17-year-old Julian Howard on charges of murder and possession of a controlled substance. However, the weapon used in the shooting has not been recovered.
In response to this latest act of gun violence, mothers who have also lost loved ones to such tragedies gathered at the school to offer support and solidarity. One mother, the founder of Mothers of Murdered Angels, emphasized the importance of speaking up and reporting any concerning behavior to prevent future tragedies.
Reflecting on her own experiences of loss due to gun violence, the founder stressed the devastating impact it has on families and communities. She emphasized the collective responsibility to ensure the safety of children and encouraged a collaborative effort to address the root causes of such violence.
Despite the arrest of the suspected shooter, Arlington police have been unable to determine the motive behind the shooting as Howard has chosen not to cooperate with detectives. This lack of information has only heightened concerns about the prevalence of gun violence and the need for proactive measures within the community.
As the investigation continues and the Bowie High School community grapples with the aftermath of this tragic event, the voices of these mothers serve as a poignant reminder of the ongoing fight against gun violence and the critical role of communication and vigilance in preventing future incidents. Their advocacy for speaking out and standing united resonates as a call to action for all members of the community to prioritize safety and support for one another.