KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — Community groups, officials, people and organizations reacted on social media following a fatal officer-involved shooting at the school on Monday.
While the details of the incident are still developing, the community is showing support for the school as four other current/former Austin-East students have been shot and killed since January.
“I am at a loss to describe my sadness as yet another horrific act of gun violence has happened in my community. Austin-East High School is my alma mater and my heart goes out to the students, faculty and staff that were present for the senseless shooting today. I do not have the necessary words to convey my thoughts about the spiraling violent acts conducted by members of my community on members of my community. I am asking everyone that knows and loves East Knoxville to pray and contemplate the lives we have lost. I am also asking that we reclaim the sanctity of our beloved neighborhood! This is the fourth unnecessary shooting involving the Austin East community this year and we must make sure we take every step and make every effort to prevent these tragedies from continuing to occur.”
Knoxville State Representative Sam McKenzie (D-District 15)
“I am heartbroken to hear about the shooting at Austin-East Magnet High School in Knoxville. My office has been briefed on the situation and I am praying for the community, including the officer injured in the line of duty.”
U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn
This is a developing story.
