2012 Chardon High School shooting

Mass shooting in Ohio, U.S. December 2025 September 2014 2012 Chardon High School shooting Chardon HS(3)10-7-24.jpg Chardon High School in 2024 USA Ohio center 250 41 35 28 N 81 12 1 W infobox Location of Chardon, Ohio Chardon High SchoolChardon, Ohio, U.S. Students and staff at Chardon High School 41 35 28 N 81 12 1 W type:event_region:US-OH inline,title 2012 02 27 7:30 a.m. EST; UTC-5 School shooting, mass shooting, triple-murder 3 3 Inconclusive, personal rivalry appeared to account for part Thomas Lane IIIJones Melanie Is T.J. Lane the Chardon High School Shooter? Facebook Rant, Twitter Photos Leaked Online http://www.ibtimes.com/articles/305463/20120227/tj-lane-chardon-high-school-suspect-facebook.htm International Business Times February 27, 2012 February 27, 2012Drissell Rachel Accused Chardon High School shooter T.J. Lane's legal case is far from normal, experts say http://www.cleveland.com/chardon-shooting/index.ssf/2012/03/legal_case_of_accused_chardon.html cleveland.com March 2, 2012 Cleveland Live LLC March 4, 2012 *Frank Hall Joseph Ricci .22 caliber Ruger MK III semi-automatic pistolHorton John T.J. Lane, accused Chardon High School gunman, appears in Geauga County Juvenile Court http://www.cleveland.com/chardon-shooting/index.ssf/2012/03/tj_lane_enters_plea_in_chardon.html The Plain Dealer March 7, 2012 Cleveland Live March 7, 2012Caniglia John T.J. Lane, accused in Ohio school shooting, described as quiet, smart, no outcast http://blog.cleveland.com/metro/2012/03/lake_academy_students_recall_q.html The Plain Dealer March 6, 2012 Cleveland Live LLC March 6, 2012 Knife Pleaded guilty *Aggravated murder (3 counts) Attempted aggravated murder (2 counts) Felonious assault yes Three consecutive life sentences without the possibility of parole, plus 37 years On the morning of February 27, 2012, six students were shot at Chardon High School in Chardon, Ohio, United States, three of whom were killed. Witnesses said that the shooter, Thomas Michael "T. J." Lane III, had a personal rivalry with one of his victims. Two other wounded students were also hospitalized, one of whom sustained several serious injuries that have resulted in permanent paralysis. The fifth student suffered a minor injury, and the sixth a superficial wound. It is the deadliest school shooting by a single shooter in Ohio.geauga-admin 2022-03-02 Chardon Reflects on 10 Years Since Tragic Shooting https://www.geaugamapleleaf.com/news/chardon-reflects-on-10-years-since-tragic-shooting/ 2026-09-27 Geauga County Maple Leaf Your News Resource in Geauga County en On the evening of February 27, authorities confirmed that the suspect was Thomas Michael "T. J." Lane III,https://www.news-herald.com/news/ohio/supreme-court-won-t-review-wrongful-death-case-in-chardon/article_9a47fe16-ab17-5dd4-8b2c-e1314bac130a.html Supreme Court won't review wrongful death case in Chardon High School shooting Read Tracey 27 July 2016 28 November 2019 November 28, 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20191128161913/https://www.news-herald.com/news/ohio/supreme-court-won-t-review-wrongful-death-case-in-chardon/article_9a47fe16-ab17-5dd4-8b2c-e1314bac130a.html dead a 17-year-old male former student of Chardon, who was a sophomore at Lake Academy Alternative School and used a bus in common with several victims. Lane used a .22 caliber handgun. Lane was soon arrested by police near his car parked outside the school. Lane was ultimately indicted on three counts of aggravated murder, two counts of aggravated attempted murder, and one count of felonious assault. Because of his age, he was detained as a juvenile pending a decision by the prosecution and court as to whether he would be tried as an adult. Following a competency hearing, in May 2012, a judge determined that Lane was competent to stand trial.Kaufman Tina Judge rules TJ Lane competent to stand trial in Chardon shooting http://www.newsnet5.com/news/local-news/oh-geauga/judge-rules-tj-lane-competent-to-stand-trial-in-chardon-shooting October 5, 2014 Scripps TV Station Group May 2, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20140225215306/http://www.newsnet5.com/news/local-news/oh-geauga/judge-rules-tj-lane-competent-to-stand-trial-in-chardon-shooting February 25, 2014 dead mdy-all Later that month the decision was made to charge Lane as an adult.Caniglia John T.J. Lane to be tried as adult in Chardon High School shootings http://www.cleveland.com/chardon-shooting/index.ssf/2012/05/judge_decides_tj_lane_should_b.html October 5, 2014 The Plain Dealer The Plain Dealer May 24, 2012 He pleaded guilty and received three consecutive life sentences without parole on March 19, 2013. In February 2014 the families of the three deceased students and Nick Walczak filed a wrongful death suit in Lake County against the Chardon School District and Lake Academy Alternative School. The Lake County judge dismissed the District and Lake Academy as parties, retaining only five former and current employees of the Chardon School District and high school as defendants. The families appealed to the Ohio Supreme Court, which declined to hear the case in July 2016. It was returned to the Lake County Common Pleas court. In addition, attorneys representing the estates of the three deceased students filed federal and state wrongful death suits against the family of T.J. Lane, which was settled in May 2014, including settlement of suits against his father, maternal grandfather, and paternal uncle (and their associated insurance companies). The Lane family agreed to pay nearly $2.7 million.https://www.cleveland.com/metro/2014/05/tj_lane_family_settles_wrongfu.html T.J. Lane family settles wrongful death lawsuits in Chardon shootings for almost $2.7 million Rutti Ron Cleveland Plain Dealer 2019-01-12 28 November 2019 On September 11, 2014, Lane, along with two older inmates, escaped from Allen Correctional Institution in Lima, Ohio. He was captured the following day, and the three men were transferred to a maximum security prison. Details Casualties1. Daniel Parmertor, 16 (deceased)2. Russell King Jr., 17 (deceased)Chardon shooting victim Russell King described as 'very social kid' February 28, 2012 http://www.cleveland.com/chardon-shooting/index.ssf/2012/02/chardon_shooting_victim_russel.html Cleveland Live LLC February 28, 20123. Demetrius Hewlin, 16 (deceased)http://fox8.com/2012/02/28/chardon-ohio-high-school-shootings Chardon High School Shootings: 3rd Student is Dead Fox8 Cleveland February 28, 2012Farkas Karen Demetrius Hewlin of Chardon dies after shooting at Ohio high school http://www.cleveland.com/chardon-shooting/index.ssf/2012/02/third_student_dies_after_shoot.html The Plain Dealer February 28, 2012 Donaldson Stan Chardon shooting victim Demetrius Hewlin liked to work out at the gym February 28, 2012 http://www.cleveland.com/chardon-shooting/index.ssf/2012/02/chardon_shooting_victim_demetr.html Cleveland Live LLC February 28, 20124. Nate Mueller, 16 (minor injury to ear) Chardon High School student describes shooter's silent rampage Patrick O'Donnell February 27, 2012 Cleveland.com; The Plain Dealer http://www.cleveland.com/chardon-shooting/index.ssf/2012/02/chardon_high_school_student_de.html August 15, 20165. Nick Walczak, 17 (shot multiple times in his neck, arm, and back; a bullet also lodged in his cheek; resulted in permanent paralysis) http://www.cleveland.com/chardon-shooting/index.ssf/2012/03/nick_walczak_begins_rehab_at_m.html Nick Walczak, survivor of Ohio school shooting, begins rehab at MetroHealth Angela Townsend Cleveland.com The Plain Dealer Cleveland March 5, 2012 August 15, 2016 https://abcnews.go.com/US/ohio-school-shooting-hospitalized-victim-bullets-cheek-neck/story?id=15826214 Ohio School Shooting Survivor Has Bullets in Cheek and Neck Christina Ng ABCNews.go.com March 1, 2012 August 15, 20166. Joy Rickers, 18 (injured in buttocks; released from hospital after approximately 24 hours) http://fox8.com/2012/02/28/shooting-survivor-released-from-hillcrest-hospital/ Shooting Survivor Released from Hillcrest Hospital February 28, 2012 Jessica Dabrowski fox8.com August 15, 2016 The incident Chardon High School was open in the morning before classes, and many students typically gathered in the cafeteria, some to get breakfast. Others waited there for a bus to classes at the related Auburn Career Center, a vocational school offering computer and other classes, and Lake Academy, a regional school for at-risk students referred for help with academic or behavioral issues. According to reports, a boy stood up in the cafeteria and began shooting at approximately 7:30 a.m. (EST), causing chaos.Horton John 5 students hurt in shooting at Chardon High School; suspect in custody February 27, 2012 http://blog.cleveland.com/metro/2012/02/at_least_4_students_hurt_in_sh.html Cleveland Live LLC February 27, 2012Official: 5 hurt, 3 Dead in Ohio high school shooting http://usnews.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/02/27/10517706-official-5-hurt-in-ohio-high-school-shooting MSNBC.com February 27, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120227171500/http://usnews.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/02/27/10517706-official-5-hurt-in-ohio-high-school-shooting February 27, 2012 dead mdy-all The surveillance video showed a shooter, later identified as Thomas "T. J." Lane, shooting four male students at one table with a handgun; he wounded another. Fleeing the school, Lane shot a female student;Johnston Laura Chardon High School emergency plan prepared community for shooting tragedy http://www.cleveland.com/chardon-shooting/index.ssf/2012/02/chardon_community_prepared_for.html The Plain Dealer February 27, 2012 he was chased out of the school by teacher Joseph Ricci and football coach Frank Hall.Bell Melissa Chardon, Ohio students recount teachers' bravery on Twitter https://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/blogpost/post/chardon-ohio-students-recount-teachers-bravery-on-twitter/2012/02/27/gIQARYuBeR_blog.html The Washington Post February 27, 2012 February 27, 2012 Lane was soon arrested by police outside the school near his car parked on Woodin Road. Five students were hospitalized; three died of their injuries within two days.Reported Shooting at Chardon High School http://www.wytv.com/content/news/local/story/LIVE-STREAM-Reported-Shooting-At-Chardon-High/caBL7e2o8UOlWpfIwxEptg.cspx https://archive.today/20130209211000/http://www.wytv.com/content/news/local/story/LIVE-STREAM-Reported-Shooting-At-Chardon-High/caBL7e2o8UOlWpfIwxEptg.cspx dead February 9, 2013 New Vision Television February 27, 2012 The severely injured Daniel Parmertor, Russell King, and Demetrius Hewlin were flown by helicopter to MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland, Ohio, approximately 31 miles by road. Joy Rickers and Nick Walczak were taken to local Hillcrest Hospital. A sixth student, Nate Mueller, was superficially injured by a bullet grazing his right ear and did not need hospital treatment. Murders At noon on February 27, 2012, Chardon Police Chief Tim McKenna announced in a news conference that one of the victims had died.Achladis Ted CHARDON HIGH SCHOOL SHOOTING: 1 Student Dead, 4 Others Injured February 27, 2012 http://fox8.com/2012/02/27/chardon-high-school-on-lockdown/ Fox News February 27, 2012 A spokeswoman for Cleveland's MetroHealth Medical Center identified him as 16-year-old Daniel Parmertor, a high school junior. His family issued a statement requesting that their privacy be respected.1 dead in Ohio school shooting; Suspect detained https://www.cbsnews.com/news/1-dead-in-ohio-school-shooting-suspect-detained/ CBS News February 27, 2012 Parmertor had been in the cafeteria to wait for a bus to the Auburn Career Center vocational school in nearby Concord Township, where he studied computer science. He intended to work with computers. At 12:42 a.m. the next day, Russell King Jr., 17, was pronounced brain dead at MetroHealth Medical Center.https://www.foxnews.com/us/third-student-dies-in-shooting-rampage-at-ohio-high-school-authorities-say Second student dies in shooting rampage at Ohio high school, authorities say FoxNews.com February 28, 2012Chardon High School Shooting: Second Student Dies as Alleged Gunman Is Identified https://abcnews.go.com/US/chardon-high-school-shooting-gunman-identified-tj-lane/story?id=15799815#.T0z9FXmy_cg ABC News February 28, 2012 King, a junior, studied alternative energy technologies. He was enrolled at both Chardon High School and at the Auburn Career Center, and was also waiting for the bus. King's family released a statement thanking the public for support and offering sympathy to the families of other victims. They said that King's organs would be donated, as he had wished.Chardon High School shootings: 3 dead, 1 released http://www.wkyc.com/news/article/232900/45/Chardon-High-School--shootings-3-dead-1-released https://archive.today/20130209100149/http://www.wkyc.com/news/article/232900/45/Chardon-High-School--shootings-3-dead-1-released dead February 9, 2013 February 28, 2012 WKYC-TV February 28, 2012 On February 28, 2012, Demetrius Hewlin, 16, the third student transferred to MetroHealth, was reported to have died.Chardon High School shooting: Victims identified http://www.wkyc.com/news/article/232773/45/Chardon-High-School-shooting-Victims-identified https://archive.today/20130209111600/http://www.wkyc.com/news/article/232773/45/Chardon-High-School-shooting-Victims-identified dead February 9, 2013 WKYC.com February 28, 2012 His family expressed their sorrow in a statement to the press. Friends of Hewlin said that he liked to work out and wanted to be on the football team. Hewlin's mother, Phyllis Ferguson, in an interview with ABC News, said of her son, "He wasn't a morning person and he was late for school. But that one day he wasn't late. We were running a little late, but we weren't late enough. But it's okay. It's in God's hands. Let His will be done." When questioned about what she would say to the assailant, she said that she would forgive him, because most school shooters did not know what they were doing.T.J. Lane, Ohio School Shooting Suspect, Forgiven By Slain Child's Mother http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/02/29/ohio-school-shooting-suspect-tj-lane_n_1311956.html HuffingtonPost.com The Huffington Post March 1, 2012 David Moye She said that her son's organs would be donated, and that she had learned one recipient was a child who was within days of death without a transplant.Ng Christine Ohio School Shooting Survivor Has Bullets in Cheek and Neck https://abcnews.go.com/US/ohio-school-shooting-hospitalized-victim-bullets-cheek-neck/story?id=15826214#.T1gLkXmy_ch abcnews.com ABC News Network March 7, 2012 Other victims Seventeen-year-old Nick Walczak was shot four times, in the arm, neck, cheek, and back.America Good Morning School shooting survivors speak out on how their 'Teenage Dream' disappeared in new PSA https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/living/story/school-shooting-survivors-speak-teenage-dream-disappeared-psa-79983799 2024-11-13 Good Morning America en He was taken to Hillcrest Hospital. Joy Rickers, 18, was released from Hillcrest Hospital on February 28 after being treated for a gunshot wound to the buttocks.Staff Writer Seniors turn tragedy into life message at graduation https://www.dispatch.com/story/news/education/2012/06/03/seniors-turn-tragedy-into-life/24177569007/ 2024-11-13 The Columbus Dispatch en-US Nate Mueller, who was not hospitalized, was nicked in his right ear by a bullet. Students Nate Mueller and Nick Walczak were waiting in the cafeteria with King and Parmertor for the bus to their school.Krouse Peter Chardon student Danny Parmertor killed in shooting liked snowboarding and wanted to work with computers http://www.cleveland.com/chardon-shooting/index.ssf/2012/02/student_killed_in_shooting_lik.html The Plain Dealer February 28, 2012 Cleveland Live LLC March 1, 2012 Teacher actions After the shooting, students praised two teachers, Frank Hall and Joseph Ricci, as heroes. Students expressed thanks to them for their "courageous actions" on Twitter. Hall was said to have charged at the shooter, who was aiming his gun at him. DeLuca Matthew Chardon School Shooting's Hero Teachers http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2012/02/27/chardon-school-shooting-s-hero-teachers.html The Daily Beast February 27, 2012 The Newsweek/Daily Beast Company LLC February 28, 2012 A student said that Hall frequently spoke of his caring for the students, which was shown by his actions.Jones Melanie Who is T.J. Lane? 5 Things to Know About Chardon High School Shooting Suspect http://www.ibtimes.com/articles/306023/20120228/tj-lane-ohio-chardon-high-school-shooting.htm International Business Times February 28, 2012 The International Business Times Inc February 29, 2012 Ricci had just started his math class when he heard shots and ordered his students to "lock down". Hearing moaning outside the classroom, Ricci put on a bulletproof vest,Severance Cristin Chardon student calls teacher a hero http://www.newsnet5.com/dpp/news/local_news/oh_geauga/chardon-student-calls-teacher-a-hero Scripps TV Station Group February 28, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120301030013/http://www.newsnet5.com/dpp/news/local_news/oh_geauga/chardon-student-calls-teacher-a-hero March 1, 2012 deadKatrandjian Olivia Ohio's Hero Football Coach Says 'I Wish I Could've Done More' https://abcnews.go.com/blogs/headlines/2012/02/ohios-hero-football-coach-says-i-wish-i-couldve-done-more/ ABC News February 29, 2012Ohio coach who chased school shooter deflects 'hero' label http://www.cnn.com/2012/03/01/justice/ohio-shooting-teacher/index.html CNN Justice Cable News Network. Turner Broadcasting System, Inc. March 2, 2012 March 2, 2012 opened the door, and dragged wounded student Nick Walczak into the classroom, where he administered first aid.Ohio School Shooting: Russell King Jr., Student At Chardon High School, Declared Brain Dead http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/02/28/ohio-school-shooting-student-brain-dead_n_1306185.html#s736038&title=Demetrius_Hewlin_ The Huffington Post February 28, 2012 Buck Wolf February 28, 2012 Walczak's family credits Ricci with saving their son's life. A student described these teachers as "two of the greatest leaders in our school." Perpetrator Thomas Michael "T. J." Lane III (born September 19, 1994) was identified as the suspect by authorities late on February 27. Crimesider Staff Report: Student confirms ID of Chardon HS shooter as T.J. Lane http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504083_162-57386079-504083/report-student-confirms-id-of-chardon-hs-shooter-as-t.j-lane/ https://archive.today/20130118200743/http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504083_162-57386079-504083/report-student-confirms-id-of-chardon-hs-shooter-as-t.j-lane/ dead January 18, 2013 CBS News February 27, 2012 Because he was a juvenile, authorities were reluctant to release his name; however, CBS News had reported in the afternoon that law enforcement officials had surrounded a house belonging to Thomas Michael Lane Jr., the suspect's father. In their investigation, police also searched the home of Lane's maternal grandparents, Jack Nolan and his wife, in Chardon Township. Lane did not live there but frequently visited on weekends.Brandon C. Baker Neighbors, Friends Describe the T.J. Lane They Knew http://news-herald.com/articles/2012/02/28/news/nh5156887.txt The News-Herald February 28, 2012 February 29, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120304032501/http://news-herald.com/articles/2012/02/28/news/nh5156887.txt March 4, 2012 dead Lorrie Taylor Chardon School Shooting: Investigators Look for 'Anything, Everything' http://fox8.com/2012/02/27/chardon-school-shooting-investigators-look-for-anything-everything/ WJW-TV February 27, 2012 February 29, 2012 The residence, along with other properties owned by the Lane family, was searched extensively on the day of the shooting. A nearby forest, which neighbors said the Lane children used for target practice, was also combed. At the time of the shooting, Lane was taking classes as a sophomore at Lake Academy, an alternative school in nearby Willoughby. The school, which is also known as the Lake County Educational Service Center, had 55 students in February 2012. They were referred there from public schools in the region because of academic or behavioral needs.Glasier David Lake Academy staff speak about quality education and students, not about suspected Chardon High shooter http://www.news-herald.com/articles/2012/02/29/news/nh5158009.txt The News-Herald March 6, 2012 June 9, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120609203745/http://www.news-herald.com/articles/2012/02/29/news/nh5158009.txt deadOne student killed, four injured in shooting at Ohio high school https://www.foxnews.com/us/third-student-dies-in-shooting-rampage-at-ohio-high-school-authorities-say FoxNews.com February 27, 2012 February 28, 2012 Students who complete their educations at Lake Academy graduate with their classmates at the sending schools. According to student witnesses, Lane had a personal rivalry with King, one of his victims. Other student witnesses said that Lane appeared to aim specifically at King that morning, indicating that he was the first to be shot of the students at his table.Sheehan Thomas Ohio School Shooting: 5 Students Shot, 1 Dies At Chardon High School, Suspect In Custody http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/02/27/ohio-school-shooting-2012-chardon-high_n_1303988.html The Huffington Post February 27, 2012 February 27, 2012 The students said that King had previously threatened to beat Lane up, and that Lane had taken up weightlifting in the previous year to prepare to fight King.Lieberman Dan Ohio School Shooter Allegedly Killed Ex-Girlfriend's New Boyfriend, Students Tell ABC News https://abcnews.go.com/US/ohio-school-shooting-victim-dating-tj-lanes-girlfriend/story?id=15834378#.T1fV8Hmy_cg abcnews.com ABC News Network March 7, 2012 Four of the five victims at King's table were students at the Auburn Career Center, a vocational school. Lane and the Auburn students regularly took the same bus from Chardon to their other schools; Lake Academy was the farthest from the home school of Chardon. Lane had known some of the victims from middle school. There were rumors that a warning about the shooting had been posted on Twitter but this was not verified. News agencies published excerpts from the Facebook profile of a boy named "T. J. Lane". The profile did not give a location, but several of the user's friends were listed as being from Chardon. One entry in particular, dated December 30, 2011, caught attention: the last line read: "Die, all of you.""'Die, All Of You' T.J. Lane, Alleged Gunmen In High School Shooting, Writes Chilling Letter (DETAILS)", GlobalGrind. Retrieved on February 27, 2012. According to a comment posted by Lane on January 20, 2012, he wrote that text as a class assignment. Reactions of friends A friend of Lane described him as "just a very normal teenage boy".Pearson Michael One dead, four hurt in Ohio high school shooting http://www.cnn.com/2012/02/27/justice/ohio-school-shooting/index.html CNN February 27, 2012 February 28, 2012 She told CNN that she was in "complete shock" from the incident. She said that Lane often seemed sad, but appeared to be completely normal. Another friend said that Lane was regularly teased at school, which made Lane "put a wall around himself" and refuse to divulge personal information. A third student told reporters that Lane had come from "a really broken-down home". He was said to be a quiet person who could be nice to others if he felt comfortable with them. Students at Lake Academy denied that he had been bullied. They described him as friendly and nice, but not very talkative. Weapon thumb|left|Sturm Ruger MK III After Lane's arrest, law enforcement determined that the gun used in the shooting had been purchased legally by his uncle. Lane stole the .22-caliber handgun from him. Prosecutor: Suspect admitted to shootings at school http://www.cnn.com/2012/02/28/justice/ohio-school-shooting/index.html CNN.com February 28, 2012 February 29, 2012 The press reported that it was a Ruger MK III Target .22 caliber semi-automatic handgun. Reports were that the shooter dropped the gun as he fled from the scene, but it was found on the ground along with a knife near the shooter on Woodin Road when he was arrested.Nicas Jack Third Teen Dead in School Attack https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052970204653604577250930031134726 The Wall Street Journal March 7, 2012 February 29, 2012Accompanying cited source is photo evidence and statements on ID impact of murder. Suspect's prior offenses On February 29, 2012, Timothy J. Grendell, the juvenile court judge presiding over Lane's case, allowed the release of the suspect's juvenile records to the press. These are generally kept sealed. According to these, Lane was arrested twice in December 2009. The first time, Lane restrained his uncle while his cousin hit him. In the second case, Lane hit another boy in the face.Glasier David T.J. Lane's history in focus: Records indicate Chardon shooting suspect has troubled past http://news-herald.com/articles/2012/03/11/news/nh5209273.txt The News-Herald Journal Register March 12, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120512181639/http://news-herald.com/articles/2012/03/11/news/nh5209273.txt May 12, 2012 dead To the second charge, Lane pleaded guilty to a count of disorderly conduct.Judge makes accused Chardon shooter T. J. Lane's delinquency records available to media http://news-herald.com/articles/2012/02/29/news/doc4f4eaeefe11dd328667165.txt The News-Herald February 29, 2012 March 12, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120404004644/http://news-herald.com/articles/2012/02/29/news/doc4f4eaeefe11dd328667165.txt April 4, 2012 dead Community reaction In the wake of the event, school district officials closed all Chardon schools on February 28.https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-17182562 Ohio shooting: One dead at Chardon High School BBC News February 27, 2012 February 27, 2012 The School Department provided counseling and scheduled a gradual return to school for the students, teachers and staff, with school resuming in full on Friday, March 2, 2012.Chardon Local Schools Alert/Information – 2/29/12 http://www.chardon.k12.oh.us/ Chardon Local Schools February 29, 2012 On the night of February 27, several vigils were held, including one at Assembly of God Church.Steer Jen Vigil offers prayers, comfort after deadly Chardon High School shooting http://www.newsnet5.com/dpp/news/local_news/oh_geauga/vigil-offers-prayers-comfort-after-deadly-chardon-high-school-shooting Scripps TV Station Group February 28, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120301203838/http://www.newsnet5.com/dpp/news/local_news/oh_geauga/vigil-offers-prayers-comfort-after-deadly-chardon-high-school-shooting March 1, 2012 dead mdy-all A suggestion by a student on Facebook,Waterhouse Mike Thousands join Facebook-started effort to wear red in support of Chardon High School after shooting http://www.newsnet5.com/dpp/news/local_news/oh_geauga/thousands-join-facebook-started-effort-to-wear-red-in-support-of-chardon-high-school-after-shooting Scripps TV Station Group February 28, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120301185140/http://www.newsnet5.com/dpp/news/local_news/oh_geauga/thousands-join-facebook-started-effort-to-wear-red-in-support-of-chardon-high-school-after-shooting March 1, 2012 dead mdy-all resulted in tens of thousands of residents wearing red, one of Chardon High School's school colors, on February 28 in support of the school.Steer Jen United Way creates Chardon Healing Fund, TJ Lane likely to face aggravated murder charges http://www.newsnet5.com/dpp/news/local_news/oh_geauga/united-way-creates-chardon-healing-fund-tj-lane-likely-to-face-aggravated-murder-charges Scripps TV Station Group February 29, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120302190930/http://www.newsnet5.com/dpp/news/local_news/oh_geauga/united-way-creates-chardon-healing-fund-tj-lane-likely-to-face-aggravated-murder-charges March 2, 2012 dead mdy-all The United Way set up The Chardon Healing Fund to help those traumatized by the shooting. Donations of $150,000 had already been made when the new fund was announced on February 28. In the evening of the day following the attack, thousands of people attended a vigil at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Chardon, where a funeral mass was scheduled for victim Daniel Parmertor, to take place the following weekend.Dissell Rachel Ohio Gov. John Kasich encourages thousands at Chardon vigil to comfort, support grieving families February 29, 2012 http://www.cleveland.com/chardon-shooting/index.ssf/2012/02/vigil.html Cleveland Live LLC February 29, 2012 As on February 28, people in attendance wore red. Chardon High School Principal Andy Fetchik spoke to rally the student body and encourage them to help each other during the healing process, while Kasich encouraged Chardon residents to support those who had lost loved ones. Political response On the morning of the shooting, Ohio Governor John Kasich issued a statement praising the Chardon Police and Geauga County Sheriff's office for their handling of the incident and pledging support to the community.BREAKING: Five students shot at Chardon High School, student suspect in custody http://www.woio.com/story/17024182/breaking-chardon WOIO.com February 27, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120626011350/http://www.woio.com/story/17024182/breaking-chardon June 26, 2012 dead The following day, Kasich ordered that the flag at the Ohio Statehouse, as well as all flags in Geauga County, be flown at half-staff in honor of the victims.Ohio Gov. John Kasich orders Statehouse, Geauga flags at half-staff for Chardon shooting victim http://www.newsnet5.com/dpp/news/local_news/oh_geauga/ohio-gov-john-kasich-orders-statehouse-geauga-flags-at-half-staff-for-chardon-shooting-victim Scripps TV Station Group February 28, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120301234534/http://www.newsnet5.com/dpp/news/local_news/oh_geauga/ohio-gov-john-kasich-orders-statehouse-geauga-flags-at-half-staff-for-chardon-shooting-victim March 1, 2012 dead mdy-all The following day, President Barack Obama telephoned the school principal, expressing his condolences for the student victims, and saying that both he and First Lady Michelle Obama were praying for the high school community. Koff Stephen President Obama calls Chardon High principal, expresses condolences The Plain Dealer Cleveland Live LLC http://www.cleveland.com/open/index.ssf/2012/02/president_obama_calls_chardon.html February 28, 2012 Students return to school On March 2, 2012, the students returned to school. A student from West Geauga High School, her mother, and a neighbor organized a "Line Up At Chardon" event via Facebook to welcome students back to Chardon High School. They had a sign saying "I'll Stand By You" (referring to the song by The Pretenders). More than 100 youths and children from surrounding school districts, including West Geauga, came to show support. Students of Chardon High School and their parents were given a "walk through" of the school. The senior class officers organised a procession for solidarity from Chardon Square to the school that morning. John Horton Chardon High School students to walk together back to school this morning http://www.cleveland.com/chardon-shooting/index.ssf/2012/02/chardon_high_school_student_to.html Cleveland.com; The Plain Dealer February 29, 2012 March 2, 2012Chardon students march in solidarity back to high school Action News WorldNow and WOIO http://www.woio.com/story/17024182/breaking-chardon March 2, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120626011350/http://www.woio.com/story/17024182/breaking-chardon June 26, 2012 dead Classes resumed the next day. The cafeteria, the crime scene, had been repainted and reorganized. The table where most of the victims had been sitting was covered with flowers and stuffed animals.Ohio high schoolers head back to class after fatal shooting http://www.cnn.com/2012/03/02/justice/ohio-school-shooting/index.html CNN Justice Cable News Network. Turner Broadcasting System, Inc. March 2, 2012 March 2, 2012 Funerals On March 2, 2012, Fred Phelps Jr. was reported to announce that the Westboro Baptist Church (WBC) was planning to "street-preach" about the Ohio shooting at the funeral of Parmertor.Waterhouse Mike Chardon supporters to create human barricade against Westboro funeral protesters http://www.newsnet5.com/dpp/news/local_news/oh_geauga/chardon-supporters-to-create-human-barricade-against-westboro-funeral-protesters newsnet5.com Scripps TV Station Group March 3, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120304145000/http://www.newsnet5.com/dpp/news/local_news/oh_geauga/chardon-supporters-to-create-human-barricade-against-westboro-funeral-protesters March 4, 2012 dead mdy-all Chardon resident Alex Pavlick organized a response via Facebook for people to form a barricade around St. Mary's Church, to protect Parmertor's family and funeral on March 3. By the day of the funeral, a human barricade consisting of thousands had readied, but the WBC protestors did not come.Byrne Kristin Thousands form human barricade outside Chardon church to protect Parmertor family from protestors http://www.newsnet5.com/dpp/news/local_news/oh_geauga/thousands-form-human-barricade-outside-chardon-church-to-protect-parmertor-family-from-protestors newsnet5.com Scripps TV Station Group March 3, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120304145015/http://www.newsnet5.com/dpp/news/local_news/oh_geauga/thousands-form-human-barricade-outside-chardon-church-to-protect-parmertor-family-from-protestors March 4, 2012 dead mdy-all Three days later Demetrius Hewlin's funeral was held at St. Mary's. Members of four motorcycle clubs, including the Patriot Guard Riders, participated as part of the honor guard.Funeral today for Demetrius Hewlin, Ohio school shooting victim http://www.cleveland.com/chardon-shooting/index.ssf/2012/03/funeral_services_begin_for_dem.html The Plain Dealer March 6, 2012 Cleveland Live LLC. March 12, 2012 The Patriot Guard had formed to provide a protective barrier for families of fallen soldiers at funerals that have been protested by the Westboro Baptist Church.Allen Erin Gibson Patriot Guard honors fallen soldiers at funerals http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08003/846233-55.stm https://web.archive.org/web/20110408160857/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08003/846233-55.stm dead April 8, 2011 post-gazette.com PG Publishing Co., Inc. March 12, 2012 January 3, 2008 Hearings and trial On February 28, 2012, at 3:50 p.m. (EST), a detention hearing was held for the suspect at Geauga County Juvenile Court in Chardon. According to the LA Times, in the United States teenage suspects under the age of 18 are considered juveniles and treated as such, unless and until prosecutors decide to charge them as adults. Thus, they are held in juvenile rather than adult facilities during detention until trial.Stanburn Samatha Chardon school shootings: Third student dies http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/regions/americas/united-states/120228/chardon-school-shooting-tj-lane-court Global Post February 28, 2012 Judge Tim Grendell began the proceeding by asking the media not to take photographs of the defendant until the court determined whether or not he would be tried as an adult. At the prosecutor's request, the judge directed that the attorneys refrain from speaking to the media regarding the proceeding.Begos Kevin Prosecutor: School shooter chose random victims http://www.fox10tv.com/dpps/news/national/midwest/court-hearing-tuesday-for-suspect-in-ohio-shooting-nt12-jgr_4086902 https://archive.today/20130125193128/http://www.fox10tv.com/dpps/news/national/midwest/court-hearing-tuesday-for-suspect-in-ohio-shooting-nt12-jgr_4086902 dead January 25, 2013 Fox News February 28, 2012 He outlined conditions under which the media could participate, including not taking any facial photographs of the defendant or his family. After hearing the prosecutor's argument for continuing the detention and receiving no objection, the judge ruled that detention, at the Portage-Geauga Juvenile Detention Center in Ravenna, Ohio, should continue for 15 days.Farkas Karen T.J. Lane, Ohio school shooting suspect, chose victims at random, prosecutor says http://www.cleveland.com/chardon-shooting/index.ssf/2012/02/tj_lane_suspect_in_shootings_a.html The Plain Dealer February 29, 2012 Cleveland Live LLC The issues of arraignment and possible transfer to adult court were put off to future dates. The judge stated that the prosecution had until March 1, 2012, to file charges. After the hearing, prosecutor Dave Joyce indicated that he would attempt to try Lane as an adult and file three counts of aggravated murder, among other charges, for the incident. At the hearing, the prosecutor said that Lane admitted to shooting 10 rounds of ammunition during the incident. Lane told police that he did not know the victims and that they were selected randomly. But student witnesses attested to Lane knowing the victims from school. Outside defense attorneys observing the hearing raised concerns related to whether Lane's attorney was protecting his client's rights. First, a concern was raised that Lane's attorney agreed with the judge that the gag order would not go into effect until after the press conference that prosecutor Joyce held following the hearing. This exception to the order gave the prosecution the opportunity to announce the defendant's confession publicly, thus influencing the jury pool. A second concern regarded prosecutor Joyce's statement at the conference that Lane "is someone who's not well." Ian Friedman, a criminal attorney and past president of the Ohio Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, said that such things are generally said by defense attorneys. Another attorney said that, in this case, he would have filed a motion to ensure that the juvenile's mental health would be evaluated before the case was brought to the adult court. As of March 1, 2012, Lane's defense had filed no motions. On March 1, 2012, prosecutors formally charged Lane with three counts of aggravated murder, two counts of aggravated attempted murder, and one count of felonious assault.Peralta Eyder Suspect In Ohio School Shooting Charged With Three Counts Of Murder npr.org https://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2012/03/01/147756266/suspect-in-ohio-school-shooting-charged-with-three-counts-of-murder 2021-02-03 2012-03-01 Ohio teen TJ Lane charged with 3 juvenile counts of aggravated murder in school shootings https://www.cbsnews.com/news/ohio-teen-tj-lane-charged-with-3-juvenile-counts-of-aggravated-murder-in-school-shootings/ CBS News March 1, 2012 Lane did not enter a plea when he was arraigned on March 6. Two additional defense attorneys were assigned to the case in March.Ohio teen TJ Lane in court over shooting deaths https://www.cbsnews.com/news/ohio-teen-tj-lane-in-court-over-shooting-deaths/ CBS News CBS Interactive, Inc. March 7, 2012 The judge postponed the decision as to whether to try Lane as an adult until after a mental competency evaluation was completed. Competency exam for Ohio school shooting suspect https://www.cbsnews.com/news/competency-exam-for-ohio-school-shooting-suspect/ CBS News Associated Press April 11, 2012 On April 9, Lane again appeared before Judge Grendell, who set the date for a competency hearing for May 2. He also scheduled a hearing for May 12 to determine whether the defendant would be tried as an adult.T.J. Lane To Undergo Competency Test Before Ohio School Shooting Trial http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/04/09/tj-lane-competency-test_n_1413579.html The Huffington Post April 11, 2012 Michael McLaughlin April 9, 2012 The competency evaluation could have been requested by either the prosecution or the defense. One observing attorney said the judge might have made the decision himself. According to Ohio law, "a child may be found competent only if able to grasp the seriousness of the charges, if able to understand the court proceedings, if able to aid in the defense and if able to understand potential consequences. The law says a child with a mental illness or an intellectual or developmental disability may not be found competent." Competency hearing The competency hearing was held on May 2, 2012. Testimony was given by psychiatrist Phillip Resnick, who testified that Lane was mentally ill. He said the defendant was suffering from psychosis that caused hallucinations and loss of contact with reality, but it "does not interfere with Lane's ability to understand the charges against him." Judge Grendell determined at this hearing that Lane was competent to stand trial. In June, the prosecutor determined to try Lane as an adult. He was indicted on the six charges that were filed earlier in March: three counts of aggravated murder, two counts of attempted murder, and one count of felonious assault. On June 8, he pleaded not guilty to those charges. His bail was set at US$1 million, and he was scheduled to be transferred from the juvenile detention center to county jail (for adults) on June 18. Muscal Michael Ohio school shooting suspect pleads not guilty in 3 deaths http://www.latimes.com/news/nation/nationnow/la-na-nn-teen-shooting-20120608,0,5185518.story The Los Angeles Times June 8, 2012 June 8, 2012 However, on June 20, a motion was filed with the Geauga County Court of Common Pleas stating that if someone were to pay a daily US$120 fee, Lane could remain in the Portage-Geauga County Juvenile Detention Center.http://www.newsnet5.com/dpp/news/local_news/oh_geauga/attorney-someones-paying-for-chardon-shooting-suspect-to-stay-at-juvenile-facility Attorney: Someone's paying for Chardon shooting suspect to stay at juvenile facility Newsnet5.com June 20, 2012 January 2, 2013 https://web.archive.org/web/20120924022342/http://www.newsnet5.com/dpp/news/local_news/oh_geauga/attorney-someones-paying-for-chardon-shooting-suspect-to-stay-at-juvenile-facility September 24, 2012 dead mdy-all Guilty plea On February 26, 2013, Lane pleaded guilty to the charges for which he had been indicted. http://www.cleveland.com/chardon-shooting/index.ssf/2013/03/tj_lane_sentenced_in_chardon_h.html T.J. Lane sentenced to life in prison in Chardon High School shootings The Plain Dealer Cleveland Live LLC John Caniglia March 19, 2013 April 7, 2013 Tracey Read Chardon High School Shooter T.J. Lane Pleads Guilty http://www.news-herald.com/articles/2013/02/27/news/doc512cc4e588790622038394.txt https://archive.today/20130411115424/http://www.news-herald.com/articles/2013/02/27/news/doc512cc4e588790622038394.txt dead April 11, 2013 The News-Herald February 27, 2013 March 2, 2013 On March 19, 2013, he was sentenced to three consecutive life sentences without parole.T.J. Lane wears 'Killer' T-shirt at sentencing for murder of 3 Chardon students http://www.cleveland.com/chardon-shooting/index.ssf/2013/03/tj_lane_wears_killer_t-shirt_a.html#incart_big-photo The Plain Dealer March 19, 2013 Ng Shelley 'F--- all of you!': Ohio teen psycho T.J. Lane gives the finger and smirks as he is sentenced to life for shooting rampage that left three Chardon High School students dead http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/ohio-teen-faces-life-prison-shooting-rampage-left-high-school-students-dead-article-1.1292702 New York Daily News March 19, 2013 After entering the courtroom for the sentencing hearing, Lane removed his dress shirt to reveal a white T-shirt which had the word "KILLER" handwritten across the front. He smiled and smirked throughout the hearing.Ng Christina How Ohio School Killer TJ Lane Snuck 'Killer' T-Shirt Past Authorities https://abcnews.go.com/US/ohio-school-killer-tj-lane-snuck-killer-shirt/story?id=18774193 ABC News March 20, 2013 After being sentenced, Lane said to the victims' families and the courtroom, "This hand that pulled the trigger that killed your sons now masturbates to the memory. Fuck all of you," while giving the middle finger to attendees.TJ Lane, Ohio high school shooter, sentenced to life in prison without parole https://www.cbsnews.com/news/tj-lane-ohio-high-school-shooter-sentenced-to-life-in-prison-without-parole/ CBS News March 19, 2013 Wrongful death suits, 2014 The families of the three deceased students filed wrongful death suits against T. J. Lane's family: his parents Thomas and Sarah, maternal grandparents Jack Nolan and his wife, and paternal uncle Daniel Lane, the latter having replaced original defendant John Bruening in the suit. The last part was finally settled in May 2014. A federal lawsuit was settled in 2013 with members of the Lane family and Liberty Mutual Insurance. Earlier in 2014, Nolan and his insurer, Nationwide Property & Casualty, Inc., settled. The final settlement brought the total to nearly $2.7 million, given that each of the three families received $890,000 (with each family paying 40% of their settlement to their respective attorneys). Judge Timothy Grendell of the Geauga County Probate/Juvenile Court, who handled the estates of the three deceased students, chose to make the settlement terms public because of the high interest in the case and to warn families of consequences if "youth are allowed access to firearms." On the second anniversary of the shooting, February 27, 2014, the families of the three deceased students, plus that of Nick Walczak as plaintiff, filed a wrongful death suit against the Chardon School District and Lake Academy Alternative School in Lake County Common Pleas court. Ruling that only Lane was responsible for the harm to these victims, Judge Joe Gibson dismissed the school districts and individual employees as parties to the suit, but retained five defendants who were current or former employees of the Chardon School District: "Schools Superintendent Joseph Bergant, Manager of Operations Dana Stearns, High School Principal Andy Fetchik, and Drew Trimble and Michael Sedlak, who were both assistant principals at the high school." The plaintiffs had argued that more could have been done to prevent the shooting. Gibson's decision was upheld on appeal by the 11th Ohio District Court of Appeals. The defendants appealed to the state supreme court, which in July 2016 declined to hear the case. It was returned to the lower court for resolution, with Judge John P. O’Donnell presiding. Also on the second anniversary of the shooting, February 27, 2014, the father of Russell King Jr., Russell King Sr., was found dead in his home from a drug overdose.2024-11-13 https://www.cleveland19.com/story/25273503/coroner-rules-on-cause-of-death-for-chardons-russell-king-sr/ Coroner rules on cause of death for Chardon's Russell King, Sr. 2014-04-18 en www.cleveland19.com 2014 escape from prison At 7:38 p.m on September 11, 2014, Lane escaped from Allen Correctional Institution in Lima, Ohio, along with two older inmates. They used a makeshift ladder to scale a fence during recreation hours.http://www.wkyc.com/story/news/local/northeast-ohio/2014/09/11/tj-lane-escape/15485863/ https://archive.today/20140912024430/http://www.wkyc.com/story/news/local/northeast-ohio/2014/09/11/tj-lane-escape/15485863/ dead September 12, 2014 CAPTURED Chardon shooter T.J. Lane in custody WKYC.com September 12, 2014 September 12, 2014 33-year-old Lindsey Bruce was quickly captured afterward. Lane and the other inmate, identified as 45-year-old Clifford Opperud of Carlisle, Ohio, who was serving a 12-year sentence for aggravated robbery, aggravated burglary, and kidnapping, remained at large.Inmate escapes from NorthWest Corrections Center https://www.toledoblade.com/local/police-fire/2014/09/17/Inmate-escapes-from-North-West-Corrections-Center/stories/20140917223 November 15, 2020 The Blade (Toledo, Ohio) Police conducted searches at a wooded area and a residential neighborhood near the prison.Seewer John Convicted killer in Ohio school shootings escapes https://apnews.com/article/66cbc45f8a6a404eb3350bfcc4f147a3 November 15, 2020 AP News September 12, 2014 At 1:20 a.m. the following day, Lane was captured near the woods, and Opperud was apprehended about three hours later. http://www.19actionnews.com/story/26513962/tj-lane-arrested WorldNow and WOIO BREAKING: TJ Lane captured 19ActionNews.com 12 September 2014 26 September 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20140912114025/http://www.19actionnews.com/story/26513962/tj-lane-arrested September 12, 2014 dead Chardon High School was closed that same day, and counselors were made available to students and staff. Later in the day, Lane, Opperud, and Bruce were transferred to the Ohio State Penitentiary, a supermax prison in Youngstown, Ohio. http://www.cleveland.com/metro/index.ssf/2014/09/tj_lane_and_other_two_inmates.html T.J. Lane and other two inmates who escaped transferred to Youngstown maximum security prison Cleveland.com Northeast Ohio Media Group Adam Ferrise 26 September 2015 In the Youngstown prison, Lane was restricted to his cell for 23 hours a day, with one hour of recreation daily. http://www.cleveland.com/court-justice/index.ssf/2014/09/from_pot_to_pokemon_prison_rec.html From pot to Pokémon: Prison records describe T.J. Lane's time behind bars before escape Cleveland.com; The Plain Dealer 15 September 2014 John Caniglia 26 September 2015 As of March 2016, Lane was transferred to the Southern Ohio Correctional Facility, a maximum-security prison in Lucasville. http://odrc.drc.ohio.gov/offendersearch/details.aspx?id=A640654 Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction DRC.Ohio.gov Offender Search Detail: Thomas M. Lane III February 7, 2017 https://web.archive.org/web/20170208133546/http://odrc.drc.ohio.gov/offendersearch/details.aspx?id=A640654 February 8, 2017 dead See also List of attacks related to secondary schools List of school shootings in the United States List of school shootings in the United States by death toll Notes References External links Three students killed in Ohio school shooting, others injured Chardon High School shooting coverage from The Plain Dealer Transcript of 911 call by eyewitness Category:2010s crimes in Ohio Category:Deaths by firearm in Ohio Category:2012 in Ohio Category:2012 murders in the United States Category:2012 mass shootings in the United States Category:Chardon, Ohio Category:High school shootings in the United States Category:Murder in Ohio Category:Crimes in Ohio Category:Attacks on schools in 2012 Category:School shootings committed by pupils Category:February 2012 crimes in the United States Category:Mass shootings in Ohio Category:School shootings in Ohio Category:Filmed killings in the United States Category:Mass shootings involving semi-automatic pistols in the United States Category:Mass shootings in schools