CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas (AP) — The trial of Adrian Gonzales, a former school officer charged with failing to protect children during the Uvalde school massacre, began amid deep emotional turmoil in the courtroom. Families of the victims wept as they listened to distressing 911 calls detailing the horror of that day.
Prosecutors stated that Gonzales arrived just before the gunman entered the school but did not act, even as frantic pleas for help came from teachers pointing out the shooter’s location.
Taking the stand, special prosecutor Bill Turner revealed that Gonzales only entered Robb Elementary School after the gunman had already claimed lives. His testimony was met with a mixture of anger and sorrow from the families in attendance.
Tissue boxes were provided in the courtroom, as families reacted visibly during the playback of harrowing audio from the emergency calls. The emotional impact was profound, as their cries and sobs echoed throughout the proceedings.
Defense attorneys challenged the narrative that Gonzales did not attempt to help. They argued that he acted quickly by radioing for backup and evacuating students amidst a chaotic scene.
Gonzales has pleaded not guilty to charges related to child endangerment, and if convicted, he could face up to two years in prison. The current focus is on his immediate response following the gunfire, with jurors warned that the evidence may be emotionally charged.
As families of the victims expressed their discontent over the legal proceedings, they emphasized their belief that more officers should face charges for their delayed responses during the attack. Nearly 400 law enforcement officials had converged at the school, yet a significant amount of time passed before they confronted the shooter.
Gonzales's trial underscores a critical examination of police protocols and their adequacy during active shooter situations, as families demand accountability and justice for their loved ones lost in the tragic event.
