LUMBERTON, N.C. — A woman is in critical condition after being shot outside the stadium of a junior high school football game at about 8 p.m. Wednesday in Lumberton in eastern North Carolina, ABC affiliate WPDE reported.
The 41-year-old woman was airlifted to a hospital.
Witnesses at Lumberton Senior High School reported hearing multiple shots and they saw a suspect dressed in black. In cell phone video, you can see students and fans running away from the field.
“It was just foolish, unnecessary,” a spectator said. “We (were) just trying to have fun.”
The victim is in critical but stable condition.
The Public Schools of Robeson County sent the following statement Thursday:
“The Public Schools of Robeson County takes the senseless matter that occurred Wednesday evening in the parking lot during the middle school football championship between St. Pauls Middle and Lumberton Jr. High teams at Lumberton High School very seriously.
“We’re not going to tolerate that kind of behavior on our campuses whether it occurs during the school day or after,” said PSRC Superintendent Dr. Freddie Williamson. “Safety is our top priority as we will place additional measures necessary to ensure the safety of our students and the public on our campuses during games.”
“A meeting took place Thursday morning by PSRC leadership that concluded in the decision to add an additional safety feature to campuses during home sporting events. The district will soon begin leasing additional lighting to be placed on campuses, especially in parking lot areas at middle and high schools. The additional lighting will add to security including the preexisting protocols of security checks at entrances and a police presence at the game.
“The proper safety protocols were followed by staff during the incident. Law enforcement agencies also responded quickly.
“We appreciate the swift action of law enforcement agencies as they responded and worked to investigate and secure the area.”
No further information was released.
VIDEO: Relief efforts continue in Lumberton and surrounding areas
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