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Family Of Alleged Madison School Shooter Issues Statement

Tana Weingartner
/
WVXU
Austin Hancock, 14, was led into court Tuesday wearing ankle chains.

The family of Austin Hancock has released a statement regarding Monday's shooting at Madison Jr/Sr High School. It says the family is devastated by Austin's actions.

Family members say they've lived in the Middletown community all their lives and never expected anything like this would happen, and certainly not that one of them would be involved. They say they're praying for everyone involved.

This statement was released to WVXU by the Hancock family and the law office of Rittgers & Rittgers.

Hancock remains in juvenile detention following Tuesday's arraignment on charges including attempted murder. He has denied the charges against him. Another hearing is set for April 5.

Students returned to school Wednesday morning.

On Monday, Hancock allegedly pulled a gun out and shot two students in the school cafeteria before fleeing. He was apprehended just outside the school and charged with two counts of attempted murder, two counts of felonious assault, inducing panic, and making terrorist threats, all felonies.

Four students were injured in total. All are reported to be doing well. The gunshot victims' injuries are reportedly non-life threatening.

Senior Editor and reporter at WVXU with more than 20 years experience in public radio; formerly news and public affairs producer with WMUB. Would really like to meet your dog.