Accident – Death – Obituary News :

Investigation Reveals Security Failures Leading to Tragic Graduation Day Shooting in Richmond

RICHMOND, Va. – A recently released report by law firm Sands Anderson has shed light on the security failures that led to the tragic shooting outside the graduation ceremony at Altria Theater in Richmond, resulting in the death of Huguenot High School graduate Shawn Jackson and his stepfather. The report was made public after WTVR CBS 6 News and the Richmond Times-Dispatch (RTD) filed a lawsuit against the Richmond School Board. The findings of the investigation have raised serious concerns about the lack of security procedures and planning, conflicting reports about the functionality of metal detectors, and the lack of cooperation from the Altria Theater and its contracted security team.

Inadequate Security Measures

According to the report, there was no discussion or planning regarding security procedures once attendees were outside the graduation ceremony. This glaring oversight left the event vulnerable to potential threats. Additionally, conflicting reports emerged regarding the location and functionality of the metal detectors, further highlighting the lack of coordination and communication regarding security measures. The report also revealed that the Altria Theater and its contracted security team did not cooperate with the investigation, raising more questions about the events leading up to the shooting.

Responsibility for Security

The report outlined the division of responsibilities for security at the graduation ceremony. The Altria Theater had contracted RMC Events to handle personnel and security equipment inside the building, while the Richmond Public School’s safety and security team provided an additional layer of event security. Richmond Police and Fire were also expected to provide further support. However, it was noted that Huguenot High School’s two resource officers were not present at the graduation, and the RPS Care and Safety workers in attendance were unable to conduct searches or control the metal detectors. The report also revealed that the school system lacked a director of safety and security during the planning phase, with the role being filled just one day after the shooting occurred.

Metal Detectors and Entrances

The report highlighted three entrances to the Altria Theater on Graduation Day: a front entrance for visitors, an entrance for graduates, and a VIP entrance. Surprisingly, the VIP entrance was the only entrance without metal detectors but was supposed to be staffed to check credentials. However, the report stated that it is unknown if anyone was actually posted at the VIP entrance. Furthermore, it was mentioned that Huguenot Assistant Principal Kevin Monroe had passed through the graduates’ entrance wearing a belt and carrying his cell phone, which should have triggered the metal detector but did not. Conflicting reports also emerged regarding whether late-arriving students went through the metal detectors.

The Case of Shawn Jackson

The investigation revealed that Shawn Jackson, the slain student, was one of the late-arriving students. Jackson was a homebound RPS student and was not supposed to be allowed on school property or at school activities due to safety and security concerns related to his ongoing mental health issues. However, he managed to attend the graduation ceremony on June 6. The report mentioned that Jackson did not participate in the graduation rehearsal, as it was deemed “too dangerous” by his mother and counselor. One interviewee speculated that Jackson “probably just found a spot and jumped in line.”

Unanswered Questions and Pending Trial

Despite the release of the report, several crucial questions remain unanswered. The report failed to clarify whether the metal detectors were functional or where they were located. Additionally, the Altria Theater’s refusal to allow investigators to walk through the building, provide video footage, or allow staff to be interviewed has hindered the investigation. As of now, Altria has not responded to inquiries regarding these concerns. Meanwhile, Amari Pollard, the individual charged with the first-degree murder of Shawn Jackson, is scheduled to go on trial in February.

In conclusion, the release of the investigation report has brought to light significant security failures that contributed to the tragic shooting during the graduation ceremony in Richmond. The lack of security procedures, conflicting reports about the functionality of metal detectors, and the Altria Theater’s lack of cooperation have raised serious concerns. As the trial approaches, it is crucial to continue seeking answers and holding responsible parties accountable for their actions.

Depend on CBS 6 News and WTVR.com for in-depth coverage of this important local story. Anyone with more information can email newstips@wtvr.com to send a tip.

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