Kentucky high school teacher shot, killed at Catholic University

WASHINGTON - A high school teacher from Kentucky was shot and killed on the campus of Catholic University in D.C. Wednesday after police say an argument turned violent.

D.C. police identified the victim as 25-year-old Maxwell Emerson of Crestwood, a small city located just outside Louisville. He was a high school social studies teacher and assistant wrestling coach.

Catholic University officials say the shooting happened around 8 a.m. after Emerson and another man walked onto the campus from Michigan Avenue. Police say the two men were involved in an argument in the plaza in front of Father O’Connell Hall.

During the fight, the gunman pulled a weapon and shot Emerson. He then fled the area.

First responders arrived and transported Emerson to a nearby hospital where he later died. Investigators believe Emerson and the gunman knew each other.

School officials say the campus community was not in danger, and that classes and activities continued as scheduled.

"While we thank God no campus community members were hurt in this incident, we pray for the individual who senselessly lost his life," said President Peter Kilpatrick in a statement. "Every human life is made in the image and likeness of God, and we pray for the end of such violence and to help build up a culture that treasures all life."

The university will hold a prayer service Thursday at 11:30 a.m. in front of O’Connell Hall for the victim.

"We are a safe campus but we are not immune from the impacts of violence. I can assure you that we are vigilant and prepared to reduce our vulnerability to violence and to keep our community as safe as possible," Kilpatrick continued.

Kilpatrick said counseling resources are available for the school community.