Arlington, Texas – A 17-year-old student, Julian Howard, has been arrested for the fatal shooting of his classmate, 18-year-old Etavion Barnes, outside Bowie High School. Howard has been charged with murder and is currently in custody at the Arlington City Jail.
Both Howard and Barnes were students at the high school, according to Arlington ISD. Police suspect that Howard specifically targeted Barnes, though the motive behind the shooting has not been disclosed.
Shortly after the incident on Wednesday afternoon, police found Barnes lying outside near a portable building with multiple gunshot wounds. Despite efforts to revive him, Barnes was pronounced dead at Medical City Arlington.
Following Howard’s arrest, it was reported that he was unarmed but in possession of a THC cartridge. The murder weapon has yet to be found, and investigations are ongoing to determine how Howard acquired the gun.
Bowie High School has canceled classes for two days and is providing counselors for students and staff. In response to the tragedy, St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church is offering a public service for those affected by the violence.
Parents of students affected by the shooting have expressed shock and grief over the incident. Erica Sims, whose daughter knew both the victim and the suspect, emphasized the need for counseling and support for the emotional toll it has taken on her daughter.
The Dallas FBI has offered its resources to assist in the case, focusing on diverting from violent outcomes and providing victim services.
As the community mourns the loss of Etavion Barnes, the investigation into the tragic incident continues, with authorities working to piece together the events leading up to the fatal shooting.