Mother of Richneck ES shooting suspect turns herself in at NNCJ

The mother of a 6-year-old boy accused of shooting his teacher at Richneck Elementary School earlier this year, turned herself in to face charges.

Deja Taylor, 25, escorted by her attorney, surrendered to Newport News Sheriff’s Office deputies on Thursday, April 14.

“By agreement with the Commonwealth’s Attorney and under the supervision of my office, Ms. Taylor turned herself in just before noon at the Newport News City Jail,” said Sheriff Gabe Morgan.   

She posted a $5,000 bond that afternoon and was released from custody.

Four days earlier, the Grand Jury for the City of Newport News indicted her on two charges — felony child neglect and misdemeanor recklessly leaving a loaded firearm to endanger a child.

NNSO deputies were the first on the scene on January 6, 2023, the day that teacher Abigail Zwerner was shot while working in her classroom. Investigators say Taylor’s 6-year-old son pulled the trigger on the gun he had taken from his home.  The gun had been lawfully obtained, they stressed.

In a press release, Commonwealth’s Attorney Howard Gwynn stated he has petitioned the Circuit Court to impanel a Special Grand Jury to continue the investigation into any security issues that may have contributed to this shooting.  He said the panel will also investigate to determine whether additional charges against additional persons are justified by the facts and the law.  

The incident is leading to reviews and changes in security at all Newport News schools.  Deputies of the Newport News Sheriff’s Office are stopping at the elementary, middle, and high schools to help everyone feel safe.  They’re talking with students and providing support to administrators and teachers as needed.

Meantime, the search continues to hire a new NNPS superintendent.  The school district also said three new advisory committees will focus on family engagement, school safety, and student rights and responsibilities.