Newly released bodycam video shows chaotic aftermath of 2023 Richneck Elementary shooting

Police body camera video from the January 2023 shooting at Richneck Elementary School in Newport News, Virginia, has been released after being sealed for more than three years.

The footage shows officers entering the first-grade classroom moments after teacher Abby Zwerner was shot by a 6-year-old student. A reading specialist is seen holding the boy as police secure the gun.

What the video shows

The child repeatedly curses at officers and dares them to fight him. He tells police the gun belonged to his mother and that he took it from her. He also says he does not care if officers call for backup or if he goes to jail.

The reading specialist can also be heard telling officers that school officials had been warned about a possible threat involving the boy earlier that day. She said it was his first week attending school without his mother staying with him.

Where things stand

Zwerner survived the shooting. A jury later awarded her $10 million in a civil case after finding that a former assistant principal ignored warnings that the child might have a gun. A judge allowed the video's release this week.