The headmaster killed within the Nashville faculty mass capturing died a hero … reportedly making an attempt to cease the assailant with a view to save her college students.
Katherine Koonce was one in all six individuals shot lifeless at Covenant Faculty on Monday as Audrey Hale went on a bloody rampage with two assault rifles and a 9MM semi-automatic.
Nashville Police Division
The pinnacle of faculty had beforehand ready her college students and employees for an energetic shooter scenario and fearlessly sprang into motion when the bullets began flying.
Nashville Metropolis Councilman Russ Pulley instructed FOX Information that Koonce, 60, promptly ended a Zoom assembly after the primary gunshot and did not suppose twice about going after the 28-year-old Hale.
Pulley mentioned, “She instantly ended the decision, acquired up and headed straight for the shooter,” indicating that Koonce might have clashed with Hale in a hallway.
Pulley added, “She did what principals and headmasters do; she protected her youngsters.”
Nashville Police Chief John Drake confirmed at a Tuesday press convention that Koonce was concerned in a “confrontation, I’m certain – you’ll be able to inform the best way she was mendacity within the hallway,” however Drake didn’t elaborate.
Koontz’s native pastor, John Bourgeois, celebrated her selfless act in a message to his congregation at West Finish Group Church in Nashville. Bourgeois wrote, “She gave her life in protection of the kids beneath her care.”
Police say two of Koontz’s colleagues, each 61, have been additionally murdered: Cynthia Peak, a substitute trainer and Mike Hill, a custodian. As well as, three 9-year-old college students have been killed: Evelyn Dieckhaus, Hallie Scruggs and William Kinney.
Nashville Police Division
Two cops have been seen on physique cam footage fatally capturing Hale on the second flooring of the personal Christian elementary faculty.
Chief Drake mentioned Hale had written a manifesto detailing the lethal assault and itemizing different potential targets. The contents of the manifesto weren’t disclosed.
Drake additionally mentioned Hale — who was a organic feminine however recognized as male — was a former pupil on the faculty and resented having to attend lessons there, which was “why this incident occurred.”
The chief went on to say that Hale purchased seven firearms from 5 completely different shops over the past a number of years. Hale’s mother and father have been stored at midnight in regards to the purchases.
