Abby Zwerner’s $40M suit over shooting by first-grader hinges on who should have stopped the boy
The lawsuit surrounding the Virginia teacher who was shot by a 6-year-old student is reaching a crucial point, as the $40 million case hinges on the responsibility of checking out classmates’ claims about the young boy having a gun. Abby Zwener, the teacher who still carries the bullet in her chest, is alleging that her former vice principal, Ebony Parker, neglected to act on multiple warnings about the child bringing a handgun to school in Newport News, Virginia.
The trial, which began with four days of testimony, saw Zwerner take the stand to recount the harrowing moment she was shot in her hand and chest in her classroom on January 6, 2023. She described feeling like she was dying and believed she was on her way to heaven. Jurors are expected to start deliberating soon.
During the trial, Zwerner’s legal team presented 16 witnesses, including school staff, law enforcement officials, medical experts, and family members. On the other hand, Parker’s defense called only one medical expert and one school safety expert, both suggesting that her response was appropriate. Notably, Parker did not testify in her defense.
Zwerner’s emotional testimony detailed the trauma she experienced when she saw the student with a gun in hand, firing at her. She described the physical and emotional challenges she faces daily, from difficulty using her hand for simple tasks to struggling with leaving her home and maintaining relationships.
The lawsuit alleges gross negligence on Parker’s part for failing to act on warnings from other staff members about the child having a gun at school. Teachers like Jennifer West and Amy Kovac testified about their concerns and attempts to alert authorities, but their efforts were reportedly brushed off.
Two doctors testified about the bullet still lodged in Zwerner’s body, which couldn’t be safely removed, leading to multiple surgeries and ongoing treatment for PTSD. Zwerner’s family members also shared how her personality has changed drastically since the incident, with her mother and twin sister attesting to the profound impact it has had on her life.
The student who shot Zwerner has not faced criminal or civil charges, while his mother, Deja Taylor, was sentenced to two years in prison for child neglect. Parker, on the other hand, is set to stand trial in a separate criminal case next month, where she has pleaded not guilty.
As the trial nears its conclusion, the outcome could have far-reaching implications for school safety protocols and the accountability of educators in preventing such tragic incidents in the future. The testimony and evidence presented will play a crucial role in determining the outcome of this high-profile case.
