Parents of Catholic High teen killed in Little Rock shooting release statement

The parents of a Catholic High teen who was killed in a Little Rock shooting have released a statement, along with officials from the teen’s school.

Shauna and Ray Staats, the parents of 15-year-old John Staats, released a statement Wednesday following the deadly shooting of their son.

According to the Little Rock Police Department, Staats was found inside a vehicle in the 8000 block of Stanton Road after being shot and killed Tuesday.

“John was a very good and sweet boy. He was very smart, fun, and liked to make people laugh. He was a good student and had a passion for football and sports. John played the violin with the Arkansas Symphony Youth Ensemble for years. He also played piano and was part of the Little Rock Dolphin swim team. John believed in God. He was baptized in July 2019 at Pleasant Valley Church of Christ. He was gifted with natural and deep thoughts on religion. John is resting in heaven, united with his dear grandfather, and will be deeply missed by his family, neighbors, friends, and classmates.”

John Staats was a freshman at the Catholic High School for Boys in Little Rock. Steve Straessle, the Head of School, also released a statement. Straessle said the school held a prayer service Tuesday to remember Staats.

“John was a freshman at Catholic High. He was a good kid, a good student, an athlete and a musician. Yesterday, the school held a prayer service attended by the entire student body. The students’ reverence spoke to the respect for the moment and care for John and his family. Catholic High’s counselors have been available and are actively identifying those students most in need. In tragedy, the boys find solace in one another and in their faith. We are helping families navigate this troubling time with their sons.”

Investigators with the Little Rock Police Department have not released details on a suspect in Staats’ death. Morrilton High School is mourning the loss of a student-athlete who was killed in a car crash.

According to South Conway County School District Superintendent Shawn Halbrook, student CJ Clemons passed away. The date of his death was not given.

Clemons was a junior at Morrilton High School and played varsity basketball with the Devil Dogs.

A post on social media remembers Clemons for his infectious smile and grit, adding that he exemplified who kids wanted to be.

Halbrook said the district is committed to supporting the students and staff as they process the loss.

Halbrooks also said counseling services will be available on campus, with students encouraged to reach out to trusted teachers, counselors and administrators.