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Background of the Jonesboro AR Shooting
The Jonesboro Arkansas shooting, also known as the Westside Middle School shooting, occurred on March 24, 1998. It was one of the deadliest school shootings in the United States at the time, leaving four students and one teacher dead, and 11 others injured.
Perpetrators and Motives
The shooting was carried out by two 11-year-old boys, Mitchell Johnson and Andrew Golden. They had planned the attack for weeks, obtaining a semi-automatic rifle and a shotgun from Johnson’s home. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, but it is believed that the boys were retaliating against bullies and seeking attention.
The Attack
The shooting began at around 8:00 AM when Johnson and Golden entered Westside Middle School. They first shot a teacher, who was killed, and then continued to shoot students and staff members. The shooting lasted for approximately 10 minutes before the school resource officer, who was on campus, confronted the boys. Johnson was shot and injured, while Golden was captured without a shot being fired.
Aftermath and Legal Proceedings
Following the shooting, the community of Jonesboro was in shock. The incident sparked a national debate on gun control and school safety. Johnson and Golden were tried as juveniles and were sentenced to serve 11 years in juvenile detention. They were released in 2009 and 2010, respectively.
Impact on the Community
The Jonesboro shooting had a profound impact on the community. Many residents still remember the day and the fear that it brought. The school, which was rebuilt after the shooting, has since been renamed Westside Middle School – The Center for Hope. The community has worked to heal and move forward, establishing the Westside Middle School Memorial Foundation to honor the victims and promote school safety.
Table: Victims of the Jonesboro AR Shooting
| Name | Age | Relationship to School |
|---|---|---|
| Shannon Elizabeth Johnson | 13 | Student |
| Benjamin J. Smith | 12 | Student |
| Scott David Beierschmitt | 13 | Student |
| Sharon Elizabeth Nelson | 45 | Teacher |
Table: Injured Individuals
| Name | Age | Relationship to School |
|---|---|---|
| Michael J. Gwaltney | 12 | Student |
| Brandi L. Johnson | 12 | Student |
| Heather L. England | 12 | Student |
| Shelby L. Shrum | 12 | Student |
| Shelby L. Shrum | 12 | Student |
| Shelby L. Shrum | 12 | Student |
| Shelby L. Shrum | 12 | Student |
| Shelby L. Shrum | 12 | Student |
| Shelby L. Shrum | 12 | Student |
