WAYNESBORO, VA — Anthony I. Ignatiadis-Isabelle, 19, of Augusta County, has died following a tragic incident at Westwood Hills Elementary School in Waynesboro, Virginia. His death occurred Wednesday, September 2, after authorities responded to reports of a suspicious person on the school campus.

According to Waynesboro police, authorities received a call around 9:12 a.m. reporting a suspicious individual on the grounds of Westwood Hills Elementary School on Rosser Avenue. Police said Ignatiadis-Isabelle forced his way into the school building, prompting an immediate emergency response.

Officers arrived within minutes and entered the building. They ultimately located Ignatiadis-Isabelle inside the school library, where he was found deceased from what authorities described as an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. Police said only about three minutes passed between the initial emergency call and officers locating him.

Authorities confirmed that no students were inside the library at the time of the incident. An adult staff member was also shot during the incident but was expected to survive. The staff member received medical treatment and was later released from the hospital.

The incident immediately placed the school community on high alert. Westwood Hills Elementary was placed into lockdown as staff members and law enforcement worked to secure the campus and protect students and employees.

Waynesboro Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Jeffrey Cassell praised the quick response of school personnel and law enforcement, saying the school’s safety and security procedures were followed during the emergency. Students were later reunited with their families at Westminster Presbyterian Church.

The school division announced that Westwood Hills Elementary would remain closed Thursday while authorities continued their investigation and the school community was given time to process the traumatic event. Families were also expected to receive information regarding available resources and any additional changes to school operations.

Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger expressed concern for the students, parents, teachers, and staff affected by the incident and thanked first responders assisting at the scene.

As authorities continue working to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident, the death of Anthony I. Ignatiadis-Isabelle marks a heartbreaking loss of a young life at just 19 years old. His passing has also left a community confronting the difficult aftermath of a traumatic event.

Anthony’s death is a painful reminder of how suddenly life can change and how deeply such tragedies can affect families and communities. For those who knew him, memories of his life will remain long after the circumstances of his death have passed from the headlines.

During this difficult time, thoughts and condolences go out to everyone affected by the incident, including Anthony’s family and loved ones, the injured staff member, the students and employees of Westwood Hills Elementary, and the wider Waynesboro community.

May those grieving find strength, comfort, and support as they navigate the difficult days ahead. May the memories of Anthony I. Ignatiadis-Isabelle remain with those who knew him.

May Anthony I. Ignatiadis-Isabelle rest in peace. May his memory be remembered with compassion, and may those mourning his passing find comfort and strength.

Rest in peace, Anthony.