HOBBS, NM. (THECOUNT) — Kelly Matthews, 63, a teacher at Highland Middle School in Hobbs, New Mexico, remains hospitalized in stable but critical condition after police say he was shot Friday by a 13-year-old student who was taken into custody following a brief foot pursuit.
The shooting occurred shortly before noon outside the school near its back doors, according to Hobbs Police Chief James Jones, who provided an update Sunday.
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Jones said the 13-year-old went outside the building between classes. When Matthews walked outside and around a corner, he encountered the juvenile, who immediately began firing at him.
Police initially responded to Highland Middle School shortly before 11:40 a.m. Friday following a report of a stabbing that was later updated to a possible shooting. Officers and school personnel found Matthews being assisted by school nurses. He was transported to a local hospital before being transferred to a hospital in Lubbock for treatment.
Authorities have not disclosed a possible motive. Jones said investigators have no information indicating Matthews was targeted ahead of time.
After the shooting, the 13-year-old fled from the school toward a nearby residential area. Officers located him a few blocks from the campus, and he was taken into custody after a brief foot pursuit, Jones said.
Police recovered a semi-automatic handgun they believe was used in the shooting. A bladed weapon was also found near Matthews, according to authorities, which was consistent with the initial report of a stabbing.
The juvenile is facing multiple charges, including aggravated assault on school personnel, shooting threats and unlawfully carrying a deadly weapon. Authorities said additional charges could be filed as the investigation continues.
Officials said no other students were injured in the incident. The Hobbs Police Department, Lea County Sheriff’s Office, New Mexico State Police and Lea County Drug Task Force assisted in the response and search for the suspect.
Hobbs Schools Board President Terry O’Brien praised the responding officers’ actions, saying their quick response prevented the violence from escalating.
School officials said classes at Highland Middle School were scheduled to resume Monday. The Hobbs Police Department is increasing its officer presence at local schools, with particular attention being given to Highland Middle School following the shooting.
Hobbs is located in Lea County in southeastern New Mexico near the Texas state line. The city sits within the Permian Basin region, a major oil-producing area extending across southeastern New Mexico and West Texas.
Google Maps: Highland Middle School, Hobbs, New Mexico
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