Tanglewood Middle School shooting victim, 12, pictured as Greenville cops arrest 12-year-old suspect in South Carolina
THE student killed in a shooting at a South Carolina middle school Thursday afternoon has been named as his family has released a statement.
Jamari Cortez Bonaparte Jackson, 12, died at the hospital after being shot at Tanglewood Middle School, according to deputies at the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office.
“We are all devastated by today’s tragedy,” read a statement by the Jackson family.
“We love Jamari dearly and we would ask that our privacy be respected as we grieve during this very difficult time.”
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Deputies said the suspect was taken into custody just after 1:45pm. The suspect is also a 12-year-old.
He was detained near the school and the sheriff’s office said that authorities aren’t looking for any additional suspects.
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Police said the suspect shot Jackson before running from the property. He was found hiding under the deck of a home. A handgun was also recovered.
Due to the suspect’s age, his name has not been released. He is charged with murder, possession of a weapon during a violent crime, possession of a firearm on school property and unlawful possession of a weapon by a person under age 18.
"While the motive for the shooting and how the suspect was able to get possession of a firearm is still under investigation, we can confirm that the victim and suspect were familiar with each other and we are confident the incident was isolated," said the sheriff's office in a statement.
"This has been a very trying situation for sure," Greenville County Sheriff Hobart Lewis said at the scene.
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"Our hearts go out to all the families involved."
The sheriff's office said over 100 deputies responded to the scene.
Footage from the scene showed a heavy police presence at the school as officials closed entrance roads to the school.
Greenville County Schools said students have been taken to Brookwood Church, where parents will be able to reunite with their kids.
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South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster thanks the sheriff's office and agents for their swift response.
"I ask that you join Peggy and me in praying for the families, students, and communities affected by this tragic situation," McMaster tweeted.
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