A 14-year-old boy, Mason Schermerhorn, was one of four victims killed in a mass shooting at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia. Just before his death, Mason—who was autistic—texted his mother from a restroom, saying he was safe.
Youth minister Ronald Clark, who rushed to the school, helped search for Mason. His mother initially believed he had survived, but Clark later had to deliver the devastating news that Mason was among the deceased. He described Mason as a joyful, kind boy who never let autism define him.
Text messages from another student revealed the terror inside the school during the attack. “School shooting rn. I’m scared,” one message read.
Mason’s sister, Alanna Wallace, remembered him as loving, energetic, and protective. She’s now drawing strength from his memory, with support from friends as she copes with the loss.