A Central Texas middle school community is grappling with the heartrending loss of a 14-year-old girl who died Monday after being stabbed by a fellow student. The tragic incident unfolded at Roy J. Smith Middle School in Killeen, where police were alerted to the stabbing. The young girl was rushed to the hospital but did not survive her injuries, according to information from Click2Houston.
The Killeen Police Department stated the stabbing occurred following "a dispute between the student and another 14-year-old girl," as per Click2Houston. Both victim and suspect's names have not been disclosed due to their ages. Detaining of the suspect happened shortly after the incident, with officers taking her into custody. In response to this devastating event, the school district has provided counseling and support services for students and staff who might need it. This was detailed in an announcement on the school's Facebook page and confirmed by ABC13.
In the aftermath of the violence, both law enforcement and the school district have expressed their commitment to the wellbeing of the school community. "We recognize the emotional impact of this incident on the victim’s family, students, staff, and the entire Killeen community. Our thoughts are with everyone affected, and we extend our support to those in needs," a representative of the Killeen Police Department noted in an official statement. An investigation into the stabbing is being led by the Killeen Police Department's Criminal Investigation Division, with support from KISD Police, as reported by Click2Houston.
During the incident, Roy J. Smith Middle School was placed on lockdown, and authorities ensured that there was no further threat to other students or staff. Emergency Medical Services were on scene within seven minutes of the call and provided immediate patient care, according to reports from both Click2Houston and ABC13. The victim was transported to Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center but ultimately succumbed to her injuries.
