William Fleming student dead in Ferncliff Apartments shooting

Roanoke City Public Schools says the shooting victim at Ferncliff Apartments was a student at William Fleming High School.

ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) – Roanoke City Public Schools says the victim of the shooting at Ferncliff Apartments was a student at William Fleming High School.

Following the incident, William Fleming Principal Tracy Anderson sent a robocall to families and school staff members regarding the tragedy in their community:

As you may have heard, a shooting occurred this afternoon in the community near Ferncliff Apartments. It is with sadness that I announce that one of our students has passed away. Roanoke police are investigating.

Our thoughts are with all those who are grieving and I want to let you know what resources and support are available to you and your family. We have placed information on the Roanoke City Public Schools website that may be helpful if you need to have conversations about grief with your child. These can be accessed by clicking on the Parent/Carer Resources button at the top of the homepage, next to the orange banner. Mental health services through Hazel Health are available, as well as immediate support through Carilion CONNECT at (540) 981-8181. School counselors and social workers will also be available.

The safety and security of our students and staff is always our top priority. Since this incident involved a student, as an added precaution, there will be an additional police presence during graduation practice and graduation this week.

Please know that we are here to support you and our entire William Fleming High School community. I hope you will join me in respecting the family's privacy as they grieve and in supporting each other.

Thank you for your support of William Fleming High School.

-Director Tracy Anderson