The Antioch High School shooting on January 22, 2025, has shocked the community, particularly Josselin Corea Escalante’s parents, whose daughter died at just 16 years old.
The late Josselin was an active soccer player admired because of her talent and dedication to the team.
Her Egyptian immigrant parents are devastated by their daughter’s death.
In a heartbreaking scene outside the hospital, her father was seen leaving in tears.
Her father was speechless with grief and sorrow and could not speak to describe the tragedy that had hit their family.
The shooting incident took place around 11:09 AM in the school cafeteria following a fight between Josselin and 17-year-old shooter Solomon Henderson.
Henderson is said to have shot Josselin dead and injured another student.
Henderson killed himself after the attack.
The reason behind this tragic event is unknown so far.
It is believed that the shooting occurred after an argument between Henderson and Escalante in the school cafeteria, where he opened fire with a handgun.
However, the police are inquiring about suspicious social media posts and online postings associated with Henderson that can tell us something about his thoughts before the shooting.
Following The Shooting, Antioch Was In Chaos As They Hurried To Secure Their Children
After the news of the shooting, more than 100 parents gathered anxiously outside the hospital across the street, waiting for students to be dropped off by school buses.
Most parents complained about school security and demanded increased security controls, including metal detectors, to avoid such incidents.
Regarding the incident, the parents expressed their fear and said-:
“We are both sickened by this news at yet another school in our state. Our heart aches for the students and teachers and parents of Antioch High School. It is unimaginable until it happens to you, and the terrifying impact and loss from today will never leave them. They will carry this day forever.“
Via Fox17
The school has a bad record of gun violence; in March 2018, students held a walkout to support gun control following national tragedies of school shootings.
Additionally, in October 2023, a 16-year-old student was arrested for bringing a loaded gun to school.
16-year-old Josselin enjoyed playing soccer; it was a part of her existence, and she was a student who got good grades.
She was distinguished by her skill on the team and for being dedicated to her teammates and school spirit.
Her passing has saddened numerous individuals in the Antioch High School community; students and staff are mourning her untimely death.
A vigil for the victims of this tragedy was also conducted at United Family Fellowship church, where community members came and prayed and offered support.
As further investigations are ongoing into the shooting as well as into Henderson’s history, people wonder how such tragedies can be avoided in the future.
The Antioch High School case again sheds light on the age-old gun control and school security matters in America.
Since gun violence is a central issue in American schools, the case is a harsh reminder that the proper mechanisms need to be put in place to protect students’ safety.
The Antioch community is dealing with great sadness as they recall Josselin Corea Escalante—a budding young athlete whose life was cut short—and seek answers in a world that seems increasingly perilous for their children.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Henderson was involved in the Junior Officers’ Corps (ROTC).
- Josselin Corea Escalante was the oldest sister in her family.
