15-year-old Deshler High School student Demarion Richardson killed following shooting in Muscle Shoals

A Deshler High School student, 15 years old, tragically passed away on Sunday morning following a shooting in Muscle Shoals.

According to the Muscle Shoals Police Department, officers responded to a call around 7:28 AM concerning a 15-year-old victim suffering from a gunshot wound at the Red Roof Inn on Woodward Avenue.

The victim was transported to Helen Keller Hospital but succumbed to their injuries.

Tuscumbia City Schools Superintendent Russ Tate confirmed the student attended Deshler High School but withheld their identity for privacy reasons.

“Our hearts go out to the families affected by this tragedy, as well as the entire Deshler student body,” Superintendent Tate said in a press release. “The Shoals community grieves this loss. We are deeply saddened.

Authorities have reported that a 16-year-old suspect is in custody, with charges expected to be filed soon.

The investigation into the incident is ongoing.

Deshler High School released the following statement:

As you may be aware, our school and district has experienced the death of a student that has affected us deeply. Demarion Richardson passed away Sunday morning, June 16. Demarion recently completed his freshman year this past May at Deshler High School. He was well known throughout the community and by the student body.

Students will have varied reactions to the death of a peer. Any reaction is normal in the grief process. Students may withdraw, cry, or exhibit anger. I encourage you to openly discuss with your child their reactions and feelings regarding the death of Demarion.

Grief counseling services will be available to students on campus this week. More information regarding the date and time will be provided soon.

If you think your child needs additional counseling support, please do not hesitate to contact the school office at (256)389-2910.

Please keep the family of Demarion in your thoughts.