MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Westside Middle School closed Friday, Sept. 20, after a staff member was shot while leaving football practice the night prior.
Officers with the Memphis Police Department responded to the shooting Thursday, Sept. 19, around 8 p.m. near the school at Frayser Boulevard and Dawn Drive. They were told a man who had been shot arrived at the Shelby County Fire Station on Northaven Drive.
He was taken to Regional One Health in critical condition.
Chiquita Perry, a Frayser Community Schools principal, told families about the shooting on the school's Facebook page just before 7:30 a.m. on Friday.
"I am writing to inform you about an incident that occurred last night involving one of our staff members," Perry said. "We were notified by law enforcement that a member of our staff was injured by gunfire while leaving football practice. We are relieved to report that the staff member is stable and currently receiving medical care. Our thoughts are with them and their family during this difficult time."
Perry said the school will close as a proactive measure and work closely with law enforcement. Security presence and monitoring will also increase.
Westside Middle will reopen Monday, Sept. 23. Perry said crisis counselors will be available to support students and staff as needed.
"In addition, we encourage you to speak with your children about the importance of safety, remaining aware of their surroundings, and reporting any concerns they may have," Perry said. "If you or your child has any information about this incident or if there are any concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to school administration or local law enforcement."
Read the full statement below:
