Muscle Shoals police say a 15-year-old boy was shot to death Sunday morning at a motel.
The incident happened at about 7:28 a.m. at the Red Roof Inn on Woodward Avenue, according to police.
First responders arrived at the motel to find the juvenile, from Tuscumbia, with a gunshot wound.
The 15-year-old was taken to Helen Keller Hospital in Sheffield where he died from his injuries.
Police said a 16-year-old from Florence, whose name was not released, has been taken into custody. Criminal charges are expected to follow.
“MSPD would like to extend our prayers and condolences to the family of the deceased,” police said in an announcement.
Deshler High School Principal Jessica Byrd, on social media, said Demarion Richardson, who had recently completed his freshman year at the school, died Sunday.
Grief counselors for students and faculty members were on the campus of Deshler High School Monday morning until noon, and will be available this week.
Byrd said Richardson’s death “has affected us deeply.”
“He was well known throughout the community and by the student body,” Byrd wrote. “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.”
