A 13-year-old boy is in custody after allegedly shooting and seriously wounding a teacher at Highland Middle School in Hobbs, New Mexico, authorities said. The incident occurred shortly before noon on Friday near the back doors of the school building.
Hobbs Police Chief James Jones stated during a Sunday press conference that the victim, Kelly Matthews, a teacher at the school, is hospitalized in critical but stable condition. According to Jones, the suspect left the school building between classes and encountered Matthews outside. As Matthews rounded a corner, the boy allegedly opened fire immediately.
Police have not indicated that the teacher was targeted prior to the encounter, and no potential motive has been disclosed. Following the shooting, the 13-year-old fled toward a nearby residential area. Officers located him a few blocks from the school and apprehended him after a brief foot chase. A semi-automatic handgun believed to have been used in the incident was recovered at the scene, according to Jones.
Teachers and staff acted quickly after the shooting. School nurses provided emergency care to Matthews before emergency responders arrived. Hobbs Schools Board President Terry O’Brien commended the quick response by police, which he said helped contain the situation and prevent further violence.
The suspect is being held on multiple charges, including aggravated assault on school personnel, making shooting threats, and unlawfully carrying a deadly weapon. Increased police presence will be maintained at Hobbs schools in the coming days, with a particular focus on Highland Middle School, according to Jones.
Highland Middle School is scheduled to resume classes on Monday as the community grapples with the aftermath of what police described as a “tragic and violent act.”