Residents in Woodlawn are calling for stronger community safety measures after two shootings were reported in the area this week, along with a series of incidents involving students at a local high school.
The recent violence has raised concerns among families, community leaders, and neighbors about public safety and the need to prevent further incidents. Some residents say the situation has become so concerning that they are considering moving away.
One neighbor told WJZ that a shooting occurred just behind their home, leaving residents worried about their safety and the future of the community.
Two Shootings Reported in Woodlawn This Week
Two separate shootings have raised concerns across the Woodlawn community.
On Thursday, a 57-year-old man was shot and killed in the 6700 block of Windsor Mill Road.
Earlier in the week, police reported that a 14-year-old was shot Monday in the 1600 block of Langford Road. Neighbors told WJZ they believe the shooting occurred in the parking lot of Edmondson Heights Elementary School.
Community activist Sharron Johnson said the incidents have drawn attention to the need for meaningful changes and stronger efforts to address violence.
“Just having these types of events occur, it’s definitely shedding light on what needs to be done in the community,” Johnson said.
Woodlawn High School Incidents Raise School Safety Concerns
The shootings come amid growing concerns about safety at Woodlawn High School, where several recent incidents involving student fights have drawn attention.
One incident ended with police recovering a loaded gun at the school, according to reports.
The situation has prompted questions about whether existing school security measures are enough to prevent weapons from entering the building.
Safiyyah Qeliqi, a senior at Woodlawn High School, questioned the effectiveness of the school’s clear-bag policy.
“First of all, if we have a clear bag, obviously people still brought the gun, so how is that helping with anything?” Qeliqi said.
She suggested that school officials consider additional security measures, including metal detectors, to help improve safety for students and staff.
Community Leaders Discuss Ways to Prevent Violence
In response to the recent incidents, community organizations and families gathered this week to discuss ways to address violence in Woodlawn schools and the surrounding neighborhood.
A major part of the discussion focused on reaching young people, understanding their needs, and encouraging parents to become more involved.
Johnson said efforts to prevent violence should include both students and their families.
“How can we reach the kids? How can we reach the youth and see what they need, but at the same time, how can we get the parents involved? Because it starts at home,” Johnson said.
Community organizations also believe that some incidents involving young people may be signs that they need additional support. They hope to expand access to mental health resources and address underlying challenges that may contribute to violence.
As concerns continue to grow, Woodlawn residents and community leaders are looking for ways to make neighborhoods and schools safer while providing young people with the support they need.
