Today (May 18, 2026), the criminal trial of the school’s former assistant principal, Ebony Parker, begins in Newport News. She faces eight counts of felony child neglect (one for each bullet in the gun), each carrying up to 5 years in prison. Prosecutors allege she showed “reckless disregard for human life” by ignoring multiple warnings that the boy had a gun.
Key Background and Timeline (January 6, 2023)
- The 6-year-old brought his mother’s 9mm Taurus pistol (loaded with 8 bullets) to school in his backpack. His mother, Deja Taylor, was later sentenced to prison for child neglect and federal weapons charges.
- Morning warnings (approx. 11:15–1:00 p.m.):
- Zwerner told Parker the boy seemed “off,” was in a violent mood, and had threatened another student.
- Other staff reported the boy telling classmates he had a gun.
- A teacher searched the boy’s backpack (found nothing) and informed Parker.
- Another student said the boy showed him the gun at recess and threatened to shoot if told.
- Parker allegedly took no substantial action (no search of the boy, no call to police, no removal from class).
- ~2:00 p.m.: While Zwerner was teaching/reading to the class, the boy pulled the gun and shot her. The bullet went through her hand and into her chest (collapsing a lung). Zwerner still got the other students out safely.
Zwerner survived but suffered serious physical and emotional injuries.
Civil Case Outcome (2025)
In November 2025, a jury in Zwerner’s $40 million civil lawsuit against Parker found the former assistant principal grossly negligent and awarded Zwerner $10 million. This is not a criminal conviction but shows a civil jury believed Parker failed in her duty to protect students and staff.
Criminal Trial (Starting Today)
This is a separate proceeding with a higher burden of proof (“beyond a reasonable doubt”). The trial is expected to run several days (through at least May 21). Parker has pleaded not guilty; her defense argues she met professional standards.
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