Hailey
In small towns, school news usually means sports, new teachers, or student achievements. But in Coldwater, Kansas, the story that shocked everyone was very different.
On Sunday night, the car of school board president Kelly Herd was hit by about 10 gunshots while parked outside her home. Thankfully, the vehicle was empty at the time, and no one was hurt.
This frightening attack happened while the district was already facing serious conflict. The community is now worried about how school debates have turned into something much more dangerous.
What Happened on Sunday Night
According to the Comanche County Sheriff’s Office, the shooting took place around 8:30 p.m. in the 500 block of East Cottonwood Street in Coldwater. Herd has lived in that neighborhood for decades.
- The car was parked and unoccupied.
- It was struck by gunfire about 10 times.
- The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) was called in to help.
- No injuries were reported.
Sheriff Jacob Bruckner confirmed the incident and called for public support. He urged residents to check their home security cameras for suspicious people or vehicles around the time of the shooting.
A District Already in Conflict
The shooting did not happen in isolation. The Comanche County school district has been under heavy pressure for months.
At the center of the controversy is Superintendent Ty Theurer, who was suspended earlier this month after allegations of sexual harassment and inappropriate touching of a student.
- The complaint was filed in spring.
- Many community members were upset that the board, especially Herd, seemed slow to act.
- On September 3, more than 100 residents attended a heated school board meeting.
- After strong public criticism, the board voted to suspend Theurer with pay.
The conflict left the district divided. Emotions were already running high before this violent incident.
School Board Members React
Board members say they are deeply disturbed by the shooting. They believe it shows how school disagreements have now crossed a dangerous line.
Here’s what some members said:
| Board Member | Reaction |
|---|---|
| Steve Prusa | Called the shooting “alarming” and said it was far more serious than vandalism. |
| Dean Yoder | Expressed relief that Herd and her family were safe. Said, “Violence is never the answer.” |
Both members reminded the public that school board leaders serve without pay and only want to help their community and students.
A Small District Facing Big Problems
The Comanche County school district enrolls around 300 students from small towns like Coldwater, Protection, Wilmore, and Buttermilk. South Central High School is located in Coldwater, while the middle and elementary schools are in Protection.
In such a close-knit area, residents know each other well. That’s why the idea of someone firing bullets over school politics has left people heartbroken and afraid.
What’s Next?
The investigation is still ongoing. Police have not released any suspects or possible motives. For now, they are depending on security footage and tips from residents.
Community members hope the shooter will be caught soon and that peace can return to their town. But the attack has left a painful mark—reminding everyone that violence has no place in education.
The shooting of Kelly Herd’s car has shaken the people of Coldwater. Already divided over the suspension of the superintendent, the district now faces the added burden of fear.
While police work to find the shooter, community leaders are reminding everyone that disagreements must be solved through dialogue, not destruction. The safety of students and trust in local schools depend on finding peace again.