LITTLE ROCK, AR – The parents of 15-year-old John Staats, a freshman at Catholic High School for Boys, have released a heartfelt statement following his tragic death in a Little Rock shooting.
School officials also expressed their condolences and detailed the support being offered to grieving students.
According to the Little Rock Police Department, Staats was found fatally shot inside a vehicle in the 8000 block of Stanton Road on Tuesday.
Authorities have not yet released details regarding a suspect in the case.
John’s parents, Shauna and Ray Staats, described their son as a bright and kindhearted young man with a passion for sports, music, and faith.
“John was a very good and sweet boy. He was very smart, fun, and liked to make people laugh. He was a good student and had a passion for football and sports. John played the violin with the Arkansas Symphony Youth Ensemble for years. He also played piano and was part of the Little Rock Dolphin swim team.
John believed in God. He was baptized in July 2019 at Pleasant Valley Church of Christ. He was gifted with natural and deep thoughts on religion. John is resting in heaven, united with his dear grandfather, and will be deeply missed by his family, neighbors, friends, and classmates.”
Catholic High School Head of School Steve Straessle also released a statement, emphasizing John’s positive impact on the school community and the support available to students during this difficult time.
John was a freshman at Catholic High. He was a good kid, a good student, an athlete, and a musician. Yesterday, the school held a prayer service attended by the entire student body. The students’ reverence spoke to the respect for the moment and care for John and his family. Catholic High’s counselors have been available and are actively identifying those students most in need. In tragedy, the boys find solace in one another and in their faith. We are helping families navigate this troubling time with their sons.”
As the investigation into Staats’ death continues, the Little Rock community is mourning the loss of a promising young life. Police have not released any suspect information at this time.
