Outpouring of support is shown Apalachee High School community after shooting

ATLANTA — Hours after a Wednesday shooting shook Apalachee High School, tributes from across Georgia and the nation poured in on social media.

Local high school sports teams, businesses and churches posted messages of love and support in the wake of the shooting.

“Our hearts and prayers go out to all the families and students involved in the incident,” the Apalachee High School football team posted on Instagram.

Four people were killed and nine others were injured at the school in Barrow County, the GBI said. A 14-year-old student was in custody.

Other schools in the area also were locked down, sending students, teachers and parents into a tailspin of frantic worry and heartbreak. Students sent “I love you” texts to their families, and later were ushered to safety outside, where they connected with parents.

The University of North Georgia, which has a campus in nearby Gainesville, sent an email expressing support for the students and their families. Nearly 150 of the university’s students graduated from Apalachee High School.

“Processing and understanding such a traumatic event can be challenging, and there is no single way to cope with trauma and distress,” the email said. “Please be aware of the resources available to help and reach out for support if you or one of our fellow Nighthawks are in need.”

Georgia’s Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities posted information on social media about the 988 crisis hotline, through which trained counselors are available 24/7.

“On behalf of Commissioner Kevin Tanner and our 4,500 Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) team members, we pray for those impacted by today’s horrific tragedy in Barrow County,” a spokesman said in a statement.

From Texas, the Forth Worth Police Department showed its support on social media with the hashtag “#ApalacheeStrong.” The Norwalk school system in Connecticut posted to “extend its heartfelt condolences to Apalachee High School and the Winder, Georgia community,” and said its schools will have a greater police presence this week.

_______