Zwerner, who sustained a gunshot wound through her hand and into her chest, spoke during the sentencing about the lasting impact of the incident. She revealed undergoing five surgeries and regular intensive physical therapy to restore motion in her hand.
Testifying about the firearm used in the shooting, federal prosecutors disclosed that Taylor had purchased the weapon in July 2022. Shockingly, ATF agents found no lockbox, trigger lock, or key for the gun, raising concerns about the accessibility of firearms in households with young children.
At the sentencing hearing, Zwerner emphasized the profound impact of the shooting on her life. “Not only do I bear physical scars from the shooting that will remain with me forever, I contend daily with deep, psychological scars that plague me during most waking moments and invade my dreams,” she stated.
Gun was involved in other incidents
Prosecutors also revealed that Taylor’s firearm was involved in another incident before the classroom shooting. An unreturned U-Haul truck rented by Taylor was discovered with a broken rear window, and text messages between Taylor and her son’s father indicated she had fired at him after encountering his girlfriend.
