SHELBYVILLE, IN — A community is in mourning after a tragic Monday night shooting claimed the life of a local high school student. Authorities have arrested an 18-year-old man in connection with the incident, which has left the Shelbyville Central Schools community reeling.
The shooting occurred on the evening of Monday, April 20, in the 400 block of West Washington Street, near South Miller Street. Responding officers from the Shelbyville Police Department discovered a 17-year-old girl deceased inside a residence from a gunshot wound.
Victim Identified as Shelbyville High Student
The Shelby County Coroner’s Office has identified the victim as Adalina Perez, 17, of Shelbyville. Adalina was a student at Shelbyville High School (SHS), where she was a known member of the student body.
In a statement released Tuesday, Shelbyville Central Schools expressed the deep impact of the loss:
“It is with deep sadness that we share this news with our school community. This loss is heartbreaking for the family, friends, and our entire SHS community. Counselors and support staff will be available throughout the week for any students or staff members who wish to speak to someone.”
Arrests and Charges
Police quickly moved to take suspects into custody following the discovery at the home.
- Adult Arrest: An 18-year-old man was arrested and currently faces a preliminary charge of reckless homicide. He is being held in the Shelby County Jail.
- Juvenile Custody: Officers confirmed that a juvenile was also taken into custody and transported to a juvenile detention facility. Their identity and specific involvement have not been released due to their age.
While a preliminary charge of reckless homicide has been filed, the Shelbyville Police Department has not yet released a motive or details regarding the circumstances leading up to the discharge of the firearm.
How to Help
The investigation remains active, and local authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. If you were in the area of West Washington Street on Monday night or have any information regarding the events, please contact the Shelbyville Police Department at 317-392-5106.
Community Support
The death of a young student is a tragedy that affects every neighbor and parent in Shelbyville. Community members are encouraged to reach out to local support networks, and parents of SHS students are reminded that mental health resources are available at the high school through Friday.
Leave your condolences for Adalina’s family and friends in the comments below. How can we better protect our youth from such senseless tragedies?
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