Police identify student killed after shooting at Butler High School
MATTHEWS, NC (FOX 46 WJZY) - One student died in the hospital after being shot at a local high school in Matthews Monday morning, according to authorities. The shooter, who has been confirmed as a fellow student, is in custody.
The shooting happened at Butler High School located at 1810 Matthews-Mint Hill Road around 7:10 a.m. just as school began. The lockdown at the school was lifted around 9:15 a.m.
Police have identified the victim as 16-year-old Bobby McKeithen, a sophomore at Butler High School. The shooter has been identified as Jatwan Cuffie, also 16, according to Matthews police. He is charged with first degree murder.
According to Matthews police, a fight broke out at the school Monday morning just before the shooting incident occurred.
"The conflict became bullying that escalated. Fear took over," said CMS Superintendent Clayton Wilcox during a press conference Monday. "A young person brought a gun to solve a problem."
Police advised that there is no further immediate danger at this time and the initial investigation shows this to be an isolated incident.
LINK: CMPD suggested metal detectors to CMS months before Butler High shooting
Parents were told to meet at Elevation Church in Matthews for further information Monday morning. A large group of frustrated parents headed back to the school to "demand answers" and get their children. Shortly after, the lockdown was lifted and parents were allowed to pick up their kids.
"Our decision to keep kids in school was toward one goal, to keep our kids safe and arrange transportation. What would parents have said to us if we let kids run out and didn't know where they were?"
CMS does not have metal detectors in school, nor does it perform searches on students. When asked about the possibility these tools being introduced, Wilcox said it was something the district would need to discuss and come to a decision.
"I can't promise miracles, but I can promise that we'll move heaven and earth to keep our kids safe."
State Superintendent Mark Johnson released the following statement:
Matthews Mayor Paul Bailey issued the following statement in regards to the shooting:
Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles released the following statement:
Governor Roy Cooper shared the following statement:
Message Butler High School sent to parents on Monday:
School will not be held Tuesday at Butler High School in order to allow students and staff to process what they have been through, according to CMS Superintendent Clayton Wilcox.