— The Patriot Call (@ThePatriotCall) February 22, 2025

“UPMC is grateful to all the law enforcement officers and to our staff who courageously ensured their own safety and the safety of our patients and visitors,” the hospital shared on Facebook. “Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone exposed to this terrible event.”

State Senator Dawn Keefer and Representative Seth Grove expressed their sorrow: “We are deeply saddened by the tragic shooting at UPMC this morning. Our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and all those affected by this senseless act of violence.”

Despite the tragedy, officials confirmed no patients were harmed, and the hospital is now secure.

This harrowing event follows another tragic shooting at Antioch High School in Tennessee on January 22, 2025.

The victim, Josselin Corea Escalante, 16, was fatally shot in the cafeteria alongside two other students who survived. Her father, German Corea, is devastated: “Every day I told her how much I loved her.” Escalante was a talented soccer player and excellent student. “It’s not fair,” he mourned.

Her aunt, Maria Corea, expressed disbelief: “She was a calm girl, well-behaved, and loved her family. She was sent to school for an education, not this.” The family is calling for increased school security, fearing history will repeat itself.

 

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A vigil was held in Escalante’s honor that night.

The shooter, 17-year-old Solomon Henderson, was a student at Antioch High. He shot himself after the attack and was pronounced dead. Investigators are analyzing his social media and writings but have found no known connection between him and the victims. “It may be that they were struck by his random gunfire,” police stated.

Metro Nashville Police Chief John Drake expressed condolences: “Our officers and counselors will work to be part of the healing process in the days and weeks ahead.”

Dr. Adrienne Battle, Metro Nashville Public Schools’ director, closed the school for the week to allow time for grieving. “I want to thank the staff who quickly and heroically followed emergency protocols,” she said, vowing to find ways to prevent future tragedies.

She added, “It’s important to remember that our schools have historically been safe places for learning, friendship, and growth. We cannot allow this tragedy to overshadow the positive experiences of our 80,000 students.”

Support services have been made available to students and staff, as the community unites to navigate the days ahead.

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