Dear Catonsville High School Parents, Staff, Students and Community Members:
Baltimore County Police are investigating the serious incident that occurred outside of our school building today. Following dismissal this afternoon at approximately 2:57 p.m., school administration was notified by our School Resource Officer that a student had been shot outside of the building in the rear parking lot. We immediately went into lockdown while the police searched and cleared the building out of an abundance of caution and to ensure the safety of students and staff who were at the school participating in afterschool activities and athletic practices. The lockdown was lifted once police had completed their search of the building. The student was transported to a local hospital and our thoughts are with the student, their family and friends. We will provide updates as we receive additional information from BCPD.
We are deeply saddened and shaken by today’s incident. Our staff work closely with our School Resource Officer to ensure our school is a safe place for all students to learn and thrive. Violence and weapons have absolutely no place in or outside of our schools and communities. Recognizing that students and staff will want to and need to process and discuss what occurred with trusted friends and adults, we will have counseling staff available to students and staff all day tomorrow and for the rest of the week. Counseling staff will be set up in the media center and students can stop by at any time during the school day to receive support. We will also have additional police presence at the school tomorrow.
Today was a difficult day for the Catonsville High School community. Our community is resilient, and I know that we can always lean on each other for support. Working together, I know that we will continue to do all that we can to keep our school safe and welcoming for all. Do not hesitate to contact me at 443-809-0808 with any questions or concerns. Thank you for your support.
Principal Matt Ames