Valley Forge High School student dies from self-inflicted gunshot wound

Initial reports circulating on social media described the event as an active shooter incident.

Update: An 18-year-old female student at Valley Forge High School died Monday afternoon after sustaining a self-inflicted gunshot wound in the school cafeteria, WKYC reported.

Heavy police presence at Valley Forge High School in Parma Heights. (Unsplash)

The incident occurred around 2:10 p.m. Parma Heights and Parma police responded immediately, locating the student with the self-inflicted wound.

Parma Heights Fire Department personnel provided aid and transported her to a hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries.

In a statement released on its website, the school said, "We are devastated to share that an incident at Valley Forge High School has resulted in the loss of a student. Our hearts are with the student’s family, friends, staff, and all who are impacted by this tragic loss.”

"Valley Forge and Normandy High Schools will be closed on Tuesday, April 21, and Wednesday, April 22. Grief counselors and crisis support teams will be available for students, families, and staff. Testing will follow an altered schedule this week. Please refer to the email that was sent earlier this afternoon for specific details regarding crisis support and schedules. All high school athletic and extracurricular events for Tuesday and Wednesday will be postponed. We will continue to support our students, staff, and families in the days ahead and will share additional information as appropriate."

Initial reports circulating on social media described the event as an active shooter incident. However, school officials quickly clarified that it was a single individual who turned the gun on themselves. No other injuries were reported.

The incident occurred around 2:10 p.m. It remains unclear whether the individual was a student, staff member, or visitor.

Official Statement from Parma City Schools

Parma City Schools released the following statement:

"Earlier today at approximately 2:10 p.m., an incident involving a firearm occurred at Valley Forge High School. Law enforcement and fire personnel responded immediately and remain on site.

The situation is contained, and there is no ongoing threat to students or staff. Student safety remains our top priority, and we are working closely with local authorities as the investigation continues.

As part of our safety protocols, the school is operating under heightened supervision, and students were evacuated to the designated reunification site at Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C).

We understand this is concerning for our school community and will provide additional updates as more information becomes available."

Emergency responders remain on the scene as the situation continues to be managed. The investigation is being led by Parma Heights Police Department.