An Indiana teen broke into a school carrying a gun, engaged police in a gunfight, and then apparently took his own life.
Brandon Clegg, 14, arrived outside Dennis Intermediate School in Richmond, Indiana, around 8 a.m. on Dec. 3. The school–and the 15 other schools in the district—was on lockdown after someone phoned the state police about an impending act of violence.
Clegg lived in Richmond but did not attend Dennis Intermediate.
If the school had not been on lockdown, the halls would have been filled with students preparing for first period.
“We are very, very grateful to that person who made that call,” State Police Capt. David Bursten said at a post-shooting press conference.
“Had they not made that call, there is no doubt in my mind that we would be having a much different conversation here right now.”
The Indiana State Police later reported that it was Clegg’s mother, Mary York, who called in the warning about her son’s violent plans.
Richmond Community Schools Superintendent Todd Terrill focused on the fact that no one except the shooter was hurt. “How thankful I am that all of our students are safe; all of our staff members are safe,” he said.
Classes at Dennis Intermediate were canceled for Friday, Dec. 14, and Monday, Dec. 17. Other schools in the district remained in operation.
Both Indiana Gov. Eric J. Holcomb and Congressman-elect Greg Pence issued a statement after the shooting.
Congressman-elect Pence reinforced the point that while the event was a tragedy, the positive takeaway was that none of the middle school students or staff was injured.
“It’s incredibly concerning to learn what unfolded at Dennis Intermediate School this morning in Richmond. I want to thank the local first responders and law enforcement who assisted and continue to monitor the situation to keep our students safe. The safety and well-being of our Hoosier children is our most important priority,” he said.
