Nine teens shot at Jasper, Texas party; homes, vehicles shot hours later in unrelated incident



Nine people were injured in a mass shooting at an after-prom party Sunday, Jasper County Sheriff's Office reported.

The victims were teens, ages 15-19, who were attending a party at a residence in Jasper, Texas, Karli Cherry told KFDM, speaking on behalf of the JCSO.

"We first want to say our prayers are with those injured early Sunday morning in the shooting that took place north of town," Jasper Independent School District Superintendent John Seybold said in a statement acquired by the outlet.

"Jasper ISD working with law enforcement in any way we can to aide in their investigation to bring these perpetrators to justice. There will be a much larger law enforcement presence this week to ensure student safety, as well as counselors on hand for any students who need their assistance," Seybold also said.

JCSO said deputies responded to a call shortly after midnight about a disturbance on County Road 263 north of Jasper involving shots being fired. The home was the site of an after-prom party, according to JSCO's press release.

When they arrived, they found nine victims with gunshot wounds which were not life-threatening. The teens were transferred to local hospitals for treatment.

Jasper County Sheriff Mitchel Newman confirmed all involved were teens from the Jasper and Newton area, according to KJAS.

JCSO said in their statement that they were questioning people of interest. As of noon Sunday, no arrests had yet been made, KJAS also reported.

The investigation into the after-prom party shooting is ongoing.

While at Jasper Memorial Hospital in the emergency room where the injured had been taken for treatment, officers heard gunshots being fired outside the hospital, KJAS reported. Jasper Police Lieutenant Garret Foster said the officers never saw anyone firing those shots.

Later, Foster told the outlet multiple houses and vehicles had been hit by gunfire early Sunday morning.

Authorities say they believe this second incident is unrelated to the mass shooting at the party.

Rather, the second incident on Sunday involved "two men who started shooting at each other." People in the area say they heard about 15 shots, the outlet also reported.

About a week before the second Sunday incident, just around the corner, someone shot 65-year-old Elvin Land at his home while he was in bed, KFDM reported. Jasper Police say they have no leads in the Land shooting case.

The city of Jasper, known as the "Jewel of the Forest" according to its website, is in eastern Texas. Its population is about 8,500.

TheBlaze reached out to Jasper's mayor Randy Sayers for comment, but did not hear back in time for publication.

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Thousands of celebrants with special needs enjoy prom at Tim Tebow Foundation's worldwide "Night to Shine"



Churches around the world hosted extraordinary prom night experiences for people with special needs Friday night.

"It's a dream come true to see so many people come together from around the world to experience this one night, and to see each face reflect the love of Christ in their joyful smiles and beautiful spirits," retired Denver Broncos quarterback Tim Tebow tweeted Friday during one of the events.

\u201cIt's a dream come true to see so many come together around the world to experience Night to Shine on this one night & to see each face reflect the love of Christ in their joyful smiles & beautiful spirits.\n\nSo thankful to have a front row seat & watch God at work, truly humbling!\u201d
— Tim Tebow (@Tim Tebow) 1676039631

More than 600 churches in 46 countries offered Night to Shine events, Miss Universe and Miss South Africa 2017, Demi-Leigh Tebow, tweeted on the eve of the big night. Demi-Leigh Tebow is Tim Tebow's wife.

For the first time since 2020, Night to Shine was held in person this year, to the delight of all. Distanced celebrations were held during the COVID pandemic.

Participants who were unable to attend Night to Shine in person were able to experience the event virtually.

"We still feel in person is best, but there are those like my own son, where right now in their life, going to an in-person event where it's really loud and really big, really bright with lots of people is an impossibility," said Ellen Gardner, mom of a Night to Shine King and TTF Shine On Manager.

\u201cThere is still time to be a part of the #NightToShine Virtual Celebration! Visit https://t.co/0sMOghfqDQ to learn more!\u201d
— Tim Tebow Foundation (@Tim Tebow Foundation) 1675997100

"COVID can cancel a lot of things, but it can't cancel worth and value and love for people," first underclassman Heisman Trophy winner Tim Tebow said when announcing 2023's event.

Night to Shine 2023 is BACK IN PERSON! youtu.be

"Seeing the faces of thousands of Kings and Queens light up as they are loved and celebrated…knowing each one of them is being shown the truth that they are significant, valuable, and loved…I can't help but be emotional," Tebow said in a tweet.

Night to Shine is a complimentary event sponsored by local churches worldwide, according to the Tim Tebow Foundation. The prom-like events for people aged 14 and older with special needs include red carpet entrances, limousine rides, catered dinners, a respite room for parents and caregivers, and a crowning ceremony where each guest receives a crown or tiara.

Night to Shine is a project of the Tim Tebow Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charity. The organization's mission is "to bring faith, hope and love to those needing a brighter day in their darkest hour of need." It is part of the organization's larger special needs ministry.

The Foundation's other projects include anti-human trafficking efforts, orphan care, and providing physical and spiritual care for children with profound medical needs,

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