2 teens arrested after gunfire near school bus

JSO: 18-year-old, 16-year-old arrested in incident

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Two teens were arrested Friday after gunshots were fired Thursday morning near a school bus carrying students to Terry Parker High School.

Saturday bond was set at over $1 million dollars for Michael Kennedy, 18.  Damani Zvobgo's hearing was passed until March 1.

No one on board the school bus was hurt, and officers have found no bullet holes on the bus. Officers have found shell casings, but no gun at the scene.

The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office said one or two shots were fired about 6:50 a.m., just after a few students involved in an altercation on the bus got off at the intersection of Fort Caroline and Peeler roads.

"Just want everybody to know that no students were hit, no one is injured and everybody is safe," JSO Lt. Robert Burns said.

A press release from Duval County Schools said the bus driver attempted to separate the fighting students. Two of the students got off the bus just before the gunshots were heard.

During its investigation, the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office said a victim was able to identify the two people that were responsible. JSO said witnesses were also able to offer information leading to warrants for both suspects being obtained.

On Friday, investigators were able to find both suspects involved. JSO identified the suspects as Damani Zvobgo, 16, and Michael Kennedy, 18.

JSO said Zvobgo faces charges of possession of a weapon/ammo by a delinquent felon, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, felony battery, aggravated stalking and carrying a concealed firearm.

Kennedy faces charges of possession of a weapon/ammo by gang-related felon and carrying a concealed firearm, JSO said.

Zvobgo and Kennedy are believed to be the only people involved in the incident and no outstanding suspects remain, according to JSO.

A resident of the area said he heard four shots before his friend's son ran across the street and started yelling at someone to take him to school because of what just happened. He said the boy was shaken up and frightened.

"It's crazy what these young kids are capable of doing," the man said. "It's not surprising but it's like wow that early in the morning at a bus stop."

According to the school district, the bus left the scene and continued to Terry Parker. Police caught up with the bus there and interviewed the driver and several students. They asked any other witnesses to call 904-630-0500.

In its statement, the district wrote, "Incidents that put student safety in danger can lead to serious consequences, such as expulsion from the school district and charges brought against the offenders. The safety of our students is our No. 1 priority. Duval County Public Schools asks parents and caregivers to talk with their children (about) their role in maintaining a safe environment on and off the campus."


About the Authors

Ashley Harding joined the Channel 4 news team in March 2013. She reports for and anchors The Morning Show.

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