Barrow Co. school shooting: Dead identified & local reaction to shooting

*The GBI has released the names of the two students and two teachers killed in the shooting. The students were Mason Schermerhorn and Christian Angulo, both 14..

The teachers were Christina Irimie, 53, and Richard Aspinwall, 39.

The school’s website says the teachers taught math. Aspinwall is also listed as a defensive coordinator for the football team.

Three takeaways from 9:00 p.m. news conference:

– At this time, there is no evidence to suggest that there were additional shooters. Investigators are actively pursuing all leads regarding any potential associates of the shooter.
– There is no evidence of a list of schools being targeted; however, there is a lot of evidence that is being recovered and evaluated. Investigators are diligently reviewing leads to determine if there are any active threats. 
– There was a call to another local high school this morning with a reported threat. Police responded, investigated, and determined there was no threat.

*First United Methodist Church of Gainesville held a prayer vigil Wednesday night. “We are praying for Apalachee High School and all the families and lives that have been forever changed! We are praying for each and every student and staff that they will feel peace through this storm!” a posting of the church’s Facebook page reads.

*9th District Cong. Andrew Clyde (R-Jackson County) whose district adjoins Barrow County: “What took place at Apalachee High School today was pure evil. Please join me in praying for the victims and their families during this unimaginably difficult time, as well as for the faculty, students and entire Winder community impacted by this senseless act of violence.”

*Hall County School District: “In the wake of the tragic shooting at Apalachee high school today, the HCSD remains vigilant and committed to the safety and security of our students and staff. We have no evidence, nor have we been contacted by law enforcement, regarding any related threat to any schools in the HCSD. That being said, there will be an increase in law enforcement across the district in the days ahead. If you have questions or concerns, please contact your school’s principal.”

*Gainesville City School System: “We’re with you Apalachee; standing at your back to stomp when you can’t, and praying for peace and comfort: today we’re all Wildcats.”