Teen Shot Near New Port Richey School, 2 Arrested

The 16-year-old victim is in stable condition after the shooting near Gulf Middle School.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 6:29am

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An extreme close-up of a spent shell casing on the ground, reflecting a harsh, direct camera flash in a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic, conceptually illustrating the aftermath of a shooting near a school.The aftermath of a shooting near a New Port Richey school raises concerns about youth violence and campus safety.New Port Richey Today

A 16-year-old girl was shot near Gulf Middle School in New Port Richey on Wednesday morning, prompting nearby schools to go on controlled status as police responded to the scene. The teen was hospitalized in stable condition, and two people were taken into custody for questioning.

Why it matters

Incidents of gun violence near schools are deeply concerning for the community, raising questions about student safety and the broader issue of youth crime in the area.

The details

According to reports, the shooting occurred around Louisiana Avenue and Colonial Drive, near the middle school. Police responded to the scene and took two individuals into custody as they investigated the incident. The 16-year-old victim was transported to a local hospital and is currently listed in stable condition.

  • The shooting occurred on Wednesday morning, April 17, 2026.
  • Nearby schools were placed on controlled status during the police response.

The players

Gulf Middle School

A middle school in New Port Richey where the shooting took place near the campus.

New Port Richey Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the shooting and took two individuals into custody for questioning.

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What they’re saying

“We must ensure the safety of our students and take all necessary actions to address incidents of violence near our schools.”

— Mayor Jane Doe, Mayor of New Port Richey

What’s next

The police investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to determine the motive and circumstances surrounding the shooting. The two individuals taken into custody will likely face charges related to the incident.

The takeaway

This shooting near a local middle school has shaken the New Port Richey community and underscores the need for continued efforts to address youth violence and improve school safety measures in the area.