KILLEEN, Texas (KXXV) — The Killeen Independent School District provided an update on Wednesday, sharing findings of an internal investigation into the March 10th death of Serenity Baker. The 14-year-old Roy J. Smith Middle School student who was stabbed on campus.
While the full report has not been released due to confidentiality concerns and an ongoing criminal case, the district released key details collected through interviews with two dozen KISD employees, hundreds of student records, communications, and surveillance footage.
Key findings from the district:
- Bullying was not determined to be a factor; the investigator found no evidence that bullying contributed to the incident. No prior reports of bullying were filed by the students involved, though officials noted students were not interviewed.
- Immediate care provided: Staff rendered aid to Serenity Baker within seconds and remained with her until emergency responders arrived. Officials emphasized she was never left alone.
As 25 News previously reported, the investigation confirmed the campus Evolv Weapons Detection System was not yet operational March 10th, despite having recently arrived. On Wednesday, Dr Fey said, “we’re moving forward with that system in addition to other systems - I don’t believe there’s any assist that we could purchase that will be 100%. I would be lying if I said that and I’m not going to say that on record.”
The update also noted "areas of concern" under review:
- The criminal trespass warning process
- Student emergency placement and expulsion protocols to DAEP
- Student search procedures
- Ensuring the district gets communication about the status of students that are arrested on campuses
KISD Superintendent Dr. Jo Ann Fey sat down with 25 News' Bobby Poitevint to discuss the findings.
She said, “couple of things that we know to be true is that there were many lapses in communication. Since then we have taken proactive steps as a system to connect with our external partners.”
Dr. Fey did note the district will rely heavily on "adult supervision," allowing staff and admin to the eyes and ears on campus to help boost safety for all.
She said, “that will always be the number one deterrent.”
