Travis Johnson, a survivor of the 2023 Huguenot High School graduation shooting, has filed a lawsuit against Richmond Public Schools (RPS) for $1 million in damages. Johnson was present that evening to celebrate his niece’s graduation when gunfire broke out outside the Altria Theater. His attorney, C. James Williams III, confirmed that the case was filed on June 2, days before Virginia’s two-year statute of limitations on personal injury claims would have expired.
Allegations Against Richmond Public Schools
Johnson’s legal complaint argues that RPS did not adequately provide safety for attendees and students at the graduation event. The complaint lists multiple defendants, including the Richmond School Board, Monique Harris (guidance counselor), Kevin Olds (former assistant principal), Robert Gilstrap (former principal), and Jason Kamras (superintendent).
These individuals had also been a part of an earlier lawsuit brought by Tameeka Jackson-Smith, who lost her son, Shawn Jackson, and her husband, Renzo Smith, in the same tragedy. In the previous lawsuit, court filings indicated that Kamras, Gilstrap, and Olds were released from liability, leaving Harris and the school board as the remaining parties. However, Johnson’s lawsuit brings the full group under legal scrutiny once again.
The Impact on Johnson’s Life
Johnson sustained a gunshot wound to his leg, leaving him with ongoing physical pain and reduced mobility. His attorney explained that Johnson now moves with difficulty, particularly because of lingering problems with his knee.
Simple acts like kneeling are no longer possible for him. Plus, Johnson also struggles with psychological trauma. His lawyer described recurring flashbacks and symptoms consistent with post-traumatic stress disorder.
Attorney Williams indicated that he had been monitoring the progress of Jackson-Smith’s case before deciding to move forward with Johnson’s. With Virginia law setting a two-year time frame for personal injury claims, the deadline required quick legal action.
It was important to file now to protect Johnson’s right to pursue damages while the federal case remains unresolved. The school division has maintained a consistent stance of silence regarding pending lawsuits tied to the shooting.
A Broader Question of Responsibility
The case raises concerns that go beyond one individual’s lawsuit. It has started a debate about the obligations of public school systems to secure events that draw large crowds, especially amidst threats of school shootings nationwide.
Families attend graduations expecting a celebration of achievement. Instead, the ceremony in 2023 ended with grief and lasting harm. For Johnson, the court system now represents the only available avenue to address those harms. His lawsuit adds another layer to ongoing legal battles tied to one of Richmond’s most painful public tragedies.
Legal Support for Injury Victims
If you or someone close to you is dealing with a case like Johnson’s, experienced legal guidance is a must. You need to file within Virginia’s strict time limits to get your voice heard in court. A personal injury lawyer Richmond VA can assist you in this regard.
Besides meeting deadlines, legal counsel can also gather evidence and present the strongest possible case for you. Their involvement can help you get justice and recover from the tragedy you faced.
