Support offered in the wake of tragedy

REARDAN – In the aftermath of 15-year-old Shadrach Hall-Turner’s death in a Feb. 22 shooting still under investigation, school superintendent Eric Sobotta released a statement to district students and families encouraging them to “come together” to support all those affected by the tragedy.

“Our hearts are with the student’s family and with all in the school and community we share,” Sobotta wrote. “As fellow community members, we are called now, more perhaps than ever, to come together to support the family and all the students and families in our school district. As your superintendent, and as a parent, I deeply feel our shared sorrow.”

Sobotta told The Record-Times that the devastation felt by the family, students and staff is beyond description.

“We have staff here that genuinely love Shad,” Sobotta said.

School resource officer Melissa Foust knew all the students involved in the Feb. 22 event and recognized the impact it has had on the school.

“This is an enormous tragedy,” she said. “It’s been hard for everyone in the community. In Reardan there is the perception of it being a safe community, so there is a lot of shock, sadness and disbelief.”

Foust said Shad was well loved, and that she had played kickball with him the prior week.

“It’s been hard for everyone,” she said. “Our students are handling it the best that they can, but it’s going to take a while for our community to get back to normal.”

Foust said ESD 101 and the Medical Lake School District provided many counselors to make sure the students were okay.

“I’ve had a few students come up and talk to me, expressing their sadness,” she said. “I told them that if they need anything, they can talk to me or a counselor. My door is always open to them, and they know that. It is hard to process grief and they don’t have to go through it alone. We’ve had a lot of community support towards our students.”

Reardan police chief Andy Manke was grateful for pizzas, Subway sandwiches, coffee and support from the Spokane Law Enforcement Chaplains Association the night of the incident.

“Community response has been overwhelming and supportive,” Manke said.

Reardan Presbyterian Church opened its doors for community members to gather and share in their grief on Feb. 24-25.

“This sort of tragedy doesn’t make sense,” Pastor Katie Thirupal said. “Fortunately, we live in a community that cares for each other. Our hope is in Christ who shows love for our community and all those affected by this. I hope that we now show compassion and protect all those involved.”

Mayor Gail Daniels is grateful to those in Reardan who have reached out to support the school, family members and all who were affected by this tragedy.

“I am proud to be part of a community where all the leaders are so professional and compassionate,” she said.