St. Louis police have released a video documenting the harrowing events of the Central Visual Performing Arts (CVPA) High School shooting that occurred on October 24, 2022. The footage reveals a 19-year-old former student entering the school armed with a long gun, leading to a tragic and deadly confrontation.
Incident Overview
The shooter, a former student of CVPA, parked his vehicle in front of the school and entered the building carrying a long gun. Surveillance and body camera footage show him encountering armed security guards inside the school. Despite the presence of security personnel, the gunman proceeded through the school, causing chaos and fear among students and staff.
Security Response and Police Action
Upon the shooter’s entry, the armed security guards immediately took action by tracking his movements and communicating the situation via radio. They alerted students and staff about the ongoing threat, initiating emergency procedures to ensure their safety. Meanwhile, St. Louis city police officers were swiftly dispatched to the scene.
Body camera footage and aerial shots from Bommarito Automotive Group’s SkyFox helicopter captured the intense response from law enforcement. The footage shows dozens of police officers swarming the campus and rushing into the building in a coordinated effort to neutralize the threat. The police action culminated on the school’s third floor, where the gunman was ultimately shot and killed.
The Aftermath and Community Impact
The shooting resulted in the tragic deaths of teacher Jean Cascades and student Alexandria Bow. The loss of these lives has had a profound impact on the CVPA community and the broader St. Louis area. The American Federation of Teachers Union Local 420 expressed their grief and called for a memorial to honor Jean Cascades, who died protecting her students.
Memorial and Security Measures
In response to the tragedy, the teachers’ union has proposed creating a permanent memorial for Jean Cascades. They suggest that now is an appropriate time for the St. Louis Public Schools (SLPS) and the community, in consultation with the city and state, to establish a fitting tribute to honor the fallen teacher. The proposed memorial aims to provide a place for reflection and remembrance for students, staff, and the community.
Opposition to Arming Teachers
While the teachers’ union opposes the idea of arming teachers, they acknowledge the need for enhanced security measures in schools. Thanks to voter approval of Proposition U.S. funding, the school district has allocated $35 million to improve security at the CVPA campus. The district is considering the option of arming all security guards to provide an additional layer of protection for students and staff.
Support Services and Resources
In the wake of the shooting, SLPS has made counseling services available to anyone affected by the traumatic event. The district encourages individuals in need of support to reach out to the Crisis Lifeline by calling 988. This initiative aims to provide mental health support and resources to those struggling to cope with the aftermath of the shooting.
Conclusion
The release of the video footage by St. Louis police serves as a stark reminder of the tragic events that unfolded at CVPA High School in October 2022. The community continues to grapple with the impact of the shooting, mourning the loss of lives and seeking ways to prevent such incidents in the future.
The proposed memorial for Jean Cascades and the ongoing discussions about school security measures highlight the community’s commitment to honoring the victims and ensuring a safer environment for students and staff.
