Shooting at Dallas High School Leaves Five Students Injured

DALLAS — A 17-year-old suspect turned himself in to police after a shooting incident at Wilmer-Hutchins High School on Tuesday, resulting in five students being hospitalized. The event unfolded shortly after 1 p.m. when reports of gunfire prompted a swift emergency response from law enforcement and medical teams.

According to an arrest affidavit obtained by WFAA, school surveillance footage showed an unidentified student allowing Tracy Haynes Jr. entry through an unsecured door at approximately 1:03 p.m. Haynes then walked down the hallway, displayed a firearm, and started shooting at multiple male students indiscriminately. Initially, five students were reported shot, but officials later clarified that one had not sustained a gunshot wound but was experiencing anxiety-related symptoms.

Following the shooting, five students were transported to local hospitals for treatment. Two of the injured remained hospitalized as of Wednesday. According to Dallas Fire-Rescue (DFR) reports, injuries varied in severity, with the majority classified as non-life-threatening.

Dallas ISD officials announced that by 1:45 p.m., the active threat had ended, and the school was secured by 2:15 p.m. Numerous police vehicles and emergency crews were seen on-site, as evacuation procedures were implemented to ensure student safety. Students were relocated to Eagles Stadium nearby for reunification with their families.

“We understand this is a difficult time and ask for your patience,” district officials stated, emphasizing the availability of counseling resources for anyone needing support.

In a search warrant affidavit, investigators noted receiving tips concerning Haynes’ whereabouts post-shooting. Officers from the U.S. Marshals Task Force attempted to locate him at a residence in Waxahachie, but he was not present during the search. Later that evening, just after 9 p.m., Haynes surrendered peacefully at Lew Sterrett Justice Center in Dallas. Jail records show he faces charges of aggravated assault in connection with the shooting, with a bond set at $600,000.

Dallas Fire-Rescue spokesman Jason Evans reported that the injured victims included four males aged 15 to 18 and one who suffered from a musculoskeletal injury. They were taken to three different hospitals: Dallas Methodist, Baylor Scott and White, and Parkland.

“This is a tragic situation,” said Dallas ISD Police Assistant Chief Christina Smith, confirming all injured students were attendees at Wilmer-Hutchins. Dr. Stephanie Elizalde, the district superintendent, described the incident as “the unthinkable” and noted that classes would be canceled for the remainder of the week to allow time for healing and recovery.

Governor Greg Abbott expressed support for the victims and emphasized the need for enhanced school safety measures across Texas. “Our hearts go out to the victims of this senseless act of violence,” he stated, reiterating that Texas has allocated over $3 billion in school security funding since he took office.

The immediate lockdown also affected nearby Wilmer-Hutchins Elementary School, although no threats were present at that location. Officials confirmed that classes would proceed as scheduled, with increased security.

Witness accounts detailed chaotic moments as the incident unfolded, describing scenes of students fleeing and emergency responders rushing to the scene. Eyewitnesses recounted hearing shots fired and the subsequent panic that ensued.

Community response has been profound, with parents, teachers, and local representatives expressing their dismay at repeated incidents of gun violence. U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett shared her heartbreak over the event, emphasizing the need for legislative action to ensure student safety. “No child should fear for their life at school,” she stated.

The investigation into how the weapon entered the campus is ongoing. Dallas ISD officials stated that procedures regarding security measures, including the operation of metal detectors and clear bag policies, would be reviewed and reinforced.