NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — Abigail Zwerner took the witness stand Thursday in a civil lawsuit against the Newport News School Division, nearly three years following the day she was shot by a 6-year-old student in her classroom. Zwerner is seeking accountability as she holds former Assistant Principal Ebony Parker responsible for negligence that allegedly allowed the shooting to occur.
Parker is the only defendant remaining in the case. Zwerner’s attorneys, led by Diane Toscano, need to demonstrate that Parker either failed to act or took insufficient precautions despite knowing of possible threats concerning the student. Legal representatives for both Parker and the Newport News Public Schools argue that the shooting was an unpredictable event.
During her testimony, Zwerner vividly recalled the harrowing moments leading up to the incident. She shared that the expression on the student’s face remains etched in her memory, describing it as both blank and unsettling. Interrogated by her attorneys about what she sensed before the shooting, Zwerner affirmed, “Yes,” when asked if she had an inkling of the imminent danger.
The impact of the shooting was not just physical but profoundly psychological. Zwerner described her immediate thoughts after the gunfire rang out, conveying feelings of impending death. “I thought I was dying,” she recounted, detailing a surreal experience that shifted from darkness to moments of clarity when she realized she needed help.
Forensic psychiatrist Dr. Clarence Watson, who has treated Zwerner since the incident, testified about her diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression. He noted that Zwerner has experienced nightmares and fears related to the shooting. Zwerner’s commitment to healing impressed the doctor, although he revealed she has contended with suicidal thoughts as well.
Zwerner’s family has also been impacted. Her twin sister, Hannah, testified about the emotional changes she has observed in Abigail since the incident. Hannah described her sister as increasingly withdrawn and struggling to engage in everyday activities. “I feel like she’s lost her sense of direction,” she said, expressing concern about their diminished communication and Abigail’s reluctance to discuss her feelings.
Witnesses at the trial included first responders and colleagues who were present on the day of the shooting. One officer recounted the sense of urgency and bewilderment they felt as they tried to enter the school, emphasizing the unexpected nature of a shooter so young. Another witness described harrowing body camera footage capturing the chaotic scene and Zwerner receiving urgent medical assistance on the classroom floor.
Medical professionals also addressed the lasting effects of Zwerner’s injuries. Dr. Romney Andersen, who treated her, demonstrated the extent of her hand injuries in court, noting significantly reduced strength. Zwerner’s ability to move forward remains severely impacted by her traumatic experience.
The trial commenced this week, following jury selection, and is expected to conclude in eight days. Any potential judgment awarded against Parker is likely to be covered by the Virginia Risk Sharing Association. As the proceedings continue, the case raises further questions about school safety and the responsibilities of educational institutions to protect their staff and students.