Wilmer-Hutchins High School Shooting Leaves 5 Injured; Suspect Bypassed Security with Help from Student

A 17-year-old student was taken into custody following an incident on Tuesday at Wilmer-Hutchins High School in southeast Dallas, where they allegedly fired indiscriminately, resulting in injuries to five students aged 15 to 18. 

Tracy Haynes Jr., the suspect, is currently in custody at the Dallas County jail, facing a charge of first-degree aggravated assault related to a mass shooting, with a bond amount established at $600,000.

A state affidavit acquired by CNN reveals that Haynes gained access to the school through an unsecured door facilitated by another student, thus evading the metal detectors designed to keep weapons out of the building. The student who opened the door is under investigation and will encounter disciplinary measures for breaching the school’s code of conduct.

The shooting took place shortly after 1 p.m., with school officers arriving on the scene within two minutes, followed by several law enforcement agencies. Surveillance footage allegedly captures Haynes drawing a firearm and discharging multiple rounds at students. 

In a shocking moment recorded on video, the suspect seemed to target a student on the ground at close range, but the gun malfunctioned, probably saving the victim’s life.

Four students sustained gunshot wounds, and a fifth was injured while trying to flee. Everyone is anticipated to make a full recovery.

Officials from the school district have not yet determined a motive. However, Superintendent Stephanie Elizalde stated that the shooting was “not random in terms of intent.” Authorities are investigating if the suspect acquired the weapon from a parent. In that case, charges could be brought forward.

Following the shooting, all classes at Wilmer-Hutchins High School were suspended for the rest of the week. Upon the resumption of classes, enhanced security measures will be implemented at all 13 entrances for the remainder of the school year.

Governor Greg Abbott expressed his condolences and committed state support, describing the incident as a “senseless act of violence.”

The shooting occurs almost a year after a comparable event at the same school, raising renewed concerns about campus safety and student access to firearms.