CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Students were the target of a shooting Thursday morning at a south Charlotte school bus stop, according to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department.
A statement from Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools said, "A person wearing a ski mask approached the students and discharged a firearm, promoting immediate panic among the students."
CMS and CMPD both confirm no students were injured. Authorities said the shooting happened shortly after 7 a.m. on Royal Point Drive near Arrowood Road. The students were waiting on a school bus for Palisades High School.
Zackia Redding's daughter was at the bus stop when the shooting happened.
"Y'all need to really stop with the guns the violence and stuff because it's really bad," Redding said. "Like kids can't even stand at the bus stop and catch their bus without someone pulling out a gun. Like what was the purpose of all these kids going to lose their lives for what."
Redding said her daughter and the other students ran when the person started shooting. Some students ran to other buildings while some hid in the trees along the road. She said many students dropped their phones or other items because it was a fight or flight moment.
Detectives believe the shooting was targeted and there does not appear to be any threat to the public.
Anyone with information on the incident is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.
Below is the full statement sent to Palisades High School families:
"Good afternoon, Palisades High School families, this is Principal “O” reaching out to inform you of an incident that occurred this morning at one of our bus stops.
While students were waiting at the bus stop, an alarming event unfolded. A person wearing a ski mask approached the students and discharged a firearm, promoting immediate panic among the students. As a result, they dispersed and ran causing some to arrive late to school.
There were no injuries reported. Law enforcement was contacted, and an investigation is underway. While this event did not take place on our campus we encourage our students and families to remain vigilant to safety threats.
As always, the safety and well-being of our students and staff is our top priority. Thank you for your continued support of Palisades High School."