A tragic incident at Roy J. Smith Middle School in Killeen, Texas, has left the community in shock after a confrontation between two 14-year-old students turned deadly on Monday, March 10, 2025.
According to local police, one student was fatally stabbed, and the alleged perpetrator has been taken into juvenile custody.
The altercation occurred shortly before 11:30 a.m. on the school campus. Police responded to reports of a stabbing and found a 14-year-old girl, identified as Serenity Baker, suffering from a stab wound. She was rushed to the hospital but later died from her injuries.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, with preliminary reports suggesting that a conflict between the two classmates escalated into violence.
The suspect, also a 14-year-old girl, was arrested and taken into juvenile custody. Due to their ages, the identities of both the victim and the suspect were initially withheld.
The Killeen Police Department expressed condolences to the victim’s family and the broader community.
“We recognize the emotional impact of this incident on the victim’s family, students, staff, and the entire Killeen community,” police said in a statement. “Our thoughts are with everyone affected, and we extend our support to those in need.”
Dr. Jo Ann Fey, Superintendent of the Killeen Independent School District, confirmed that the school was placed on lockdown following the incident. Over 1,000 students were relocated to a local church for a reunification process with their families.
In the wake of the tragedy, the school district announced that classes at Roy J. Smith Middle School will be canceled until after spring break, which ends on March 24.
When students and staff return, the district will provide counseling and support services to help them cope with the emotional aftermath of the incident.
The death of Serenity Baker has sent ripples of grief through the Killeen community, with many expressing shock and sadness over the loss of a young life. The incident has also raised questions about school safety and conflict resolution among students.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information about the altercation to come forward.
Meanwhile, the community is rallying to support the victim’s family and those affected by this heartbreaking event.
A GoFundMe campaign set up on her behalf has raised almost $25,000, far exceeding the $5,500 goal.
