Delaware State Police
News Release

DSP News Release: Thursday, January 08, 2009- Troopers Investigate Shooting at William Penn High School After Basketball Game

Location of Incident: William Penn High School, 713 East Basin Road, New Castle, Delaware, New Castle County

Date and Time of Occurrence: Thursday, January 08, 2009, approximately 8:30 p.m.

Suspects: Unknown at this time

Resume: Earlier this evening, five Troopers were assigned to William Penn High School in New Castle to participate in a standard security detail at a basketball game between William Penn and Christiana High.

At approximately 8:30 p.m. the game was over and the crowd began to disperse. A fight then broke out in the front parking lot between several William Penn students. Allegedly the initial argument began when one student kissed the boyfriend of another student. Words were exchanged and punches were thrown. A 10-year-veteran of the State Police tried to break up the fight. This Trooper was forced to the ground by several students and suffered a serious injury to her shoulder.

A call for help was issued and multiple officers converged on the scene. With Troopers in force in the parking lot, things were seemingly under control. Several minutes went by and all of the sudden, a single gun shot rang out- with Troopers just yards away. An 18-year-old male student was struck by the gunfire. This victim was able to stay on his feet and he ran back into the school where he sought help for his injury.

The injured Trooper was transported from the scene to Christiana Hospital where she is currently being treated for a fracture to her shoulder. The shooting victim was also transported to Christiana Hospital where he was last listed in stable condition. His injuries are considered serious, but not life threatening.

The investigation involving the injured Trooper is ongoing, and although those subjects involved in this melee have been identified, no arrests have been made.

It should be noted that the shooting and the fight appear to be unrelated at this time.

Detectives report that they are receiving little cooperation from those witnesses interviewed thus far in regards to the shooting. Anyone with information regarding this shooting should call 302.834.2630 ext. 209. Tips may also be forwarded to law enforcement through tip lines maintained by Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 or on line at www.tipsubmit.com.

State Police officials have an action plan in place for tomorrow’s school day. Additional Troopers will be on scene and officers will be working with school administrators to ensure the safety of the students at William Penn. Questions regarding specific measures to be taken by the school should be directed to the Colonial School District.