UPDATE: Shot Teacher Recovering, First Victim Home From Hospital Save Email Print
Posted: 1:44 AM Feb 10, 2008
 Last Updated: 1:45 AM Feb 10, 2008
 Reporter: Randy Yohe
Email Address: news@wsaz.com
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UPDATE SATURDAY @ 9:43 PM
WSAZ Just talked to Stephanie Loop. She is home from the hospital and says she is feeling a little bit better.

UPDATE SATURDAY @ 4:30PM
The hospital is no longer releasing Christi Layne's condition. We do know that Friday she was recovering after surgery. Stephanie Loop's family tells NewsChannel 3 her injuries are not life-threatening.

UPDATE FRIDAY @ 9:30 PM
While police are still sorting out just what happened in the Portsmouth standoff Thursday, two assault victims continue to recover in two hospitals.

The police chief told WSAZ at about noon Friday that stabbing victim Stephanie Loop was in critical but stable condition at a Columbus hospital -- and family members of Note Dame Elementary teacher Christi Layne say the 53 year old is out of surgery and her many injuries are not life threatening.

Christi Layne's brother-in-law, David Piatt, told WSAZ that Christi was stabbed by estranged husband Mike Layne 14 times in front of her fifth grade class.

Piatt said Christi was also shot at in the classroom three times and hit once with a wound to her cheek.

Court records show Christi Layne, in the process of a divorce, feared for her life when she took out a domestic protective order against he husband the day after Christmas he says when Mike Layne entered the classroom, Christi thought at first, he was just there to argue, but then she tried to protect herself second and her students first.

Police said the Laynes and Stephanie Loop were involved in some sort of love and hate triangle, but family and friends say a very troubled Mike Layne had lost touch with reality.

We also learned today that Mike Lane had troubles with pills and depression.

UPDATE FRIDAY @ 11:50 AM
Portsmouth Police now say Michael Layne attacked his girlfriend, Stephanie Loop, then his estranged wife Christi Layne in front of her fifth grade class before returning to his home and taking his own life. Police say Michael Layne may have taken his own life, possibly as early as 9:30 Thursday morning, after an exchange of gunfire with police at his house.

Police described Stephanie Loop as Michael Layne's "girlfriend". Loop is 22. Michael Layne was 56. Stephanie Loop is in critical but stable condition in a Columbus hospital, according to police.

A relative of Christi Layne tells WSAZ that Layne is recovering from her wounds and is in stable condition at a Huntington hospital. Layne was repeatedly stabbed then shot by her estranged husband.

UPDATE FRIDAY @ 9:44 AM
From the Associated Press:

PORTSMOUTH, Ohio (AP) - They've canceled classes today at the school in southern Ohio where a teacher's estranged husband stabbed her in front of her fifth grade class yesterday.

Administrators at Notre Dame Elementary in Portsmouth say they'll have counselors on hand for the students when the school reopens next week. None of the children were hurt.

The teacher's lawyer tells The Columbus Dispatch that Christi Layne is doing fine after surgery.

Police say her husband William Michael Lane was the attacker. He was found dead hours later when officers entered his home.

Investigators also believe the stabbing of another woman in Portsmouth yesterday is connected.

Last night, an overflow crowd jammed a local Catholic Church for a prayer service.


SITUATION OVERVIEW
PORTSMOUTH, Ohio -- The man who police say stabbed and possibly shot his wife while she was teaching at a school in Portsmouth, Ohio, has been found dead after a standoff with police.

The incident happened at Notre Dame Elementary School at about 9am Thursday morning.

Portsmouth Police tell WSAZ that Michael Layne stabbed his estranged wife, Christi Layne, inside a classroom at the school while students were in the room. No students were injured in the incident. The Ohio Associated Press is reporting that police are still investigating whether or not Mrs. Layne was shot during the scuffle. Police say there was a shot fired, but they are not sure at this point if it struck Mrs. Layne.

Christi is reported to be in critical condition at Cabell-Huntington Hospital in Huntington, WV.

Police surrounded a house on Argonne Road in Portsmouth where the Layne barricaded himself inside. Officers were able to communicate with him early in the standoff situation, but found him dead inside the house at about 1:30pm.

Police say Layne shot and killed himself.

A stabbing victim from an earlier incident in Portsmouth is in a Columbus hospital in critical condition. Police believe the two incidents may be related.

Thursday night, Ohio Governor Ted Strickland issued the following statement.

“I am deeply saddened by the tragic events that took place today in Portsmouth. My thoughts and prayers are with those affected by this terrible incident,” Ohio Governor Ted Strickland said. “I want to thank members of local law enforcement, the Ohio State Highway Patrol and all other emergency personnel for their hard work in responding to this very difficult situation.”

Details from 3pm Press Conference
Police say they heard gunshots when they got on the scene on Argonne Road. They tried to negotiate with the suspect for an hour and a half, they figured out the suspect was dead. They say he shot himself.

Police say the suspect is legally known as William Michael Layne, commonly known as Mike Layne. He was 46 years old. Police say they had a domestic situation at this home about two weeks ago.

Police say the first victim -- from the stabbing -- is Stephanie Loop. The second victim is Christie Layne. She is the teacher at Notre Dame Elementary School. Police say both are critical but stable condition.

Police say the relationship between Stephanie Loop and the Laynes is undetermined.

Police say Mike Layne was on disability from his job with the city of Portsmouth.


CONTINUING COVERAGE:

Update at 2:34pm
Portsmouth's Mayor has issued a statement. Click on the link above to read it (Adobe Acrobat required).

Update at 2:12pm
Paperwork filed in Scioto County court confirms that Christi Layne filed for divorce from Michael Layne on January 25th -- less than two weeks ago. Three days later, a mutual restraining order was issued.

Update at 1:48pm
Police now confirm that the suspect, Michael Layne, has been found dead. They say he died from a self-inflicted wound.

One of the victims, a teacher and wife of the suspect, is Christi Layne. She is in critical condition at Cabell-Huntington Hospital.

A stabbing victim from an earlier incident in Portsmouth is in a Columbus hospital in critical condition. Police believe the two incidents may be related.

Update at 1:07
WSAZ's Randy Yohe reports that the suspect is still alive and police are speaking with him. Portsmouth Police Chief Charles Horner tells us that police have established phone communication with the suspect and are trying to negotiate. Horner says professional negotiators are talking with the man.

Horner also confirms the two victims are in critical condition.

Yohe estimates that there are at least 100 officers on the scene.
two victims are in critical condition.

Update with police press conference
Police say there is a current barricaded situation on Argonne Drive with numerous law enforcement officials. They have requested additional help from the state.

Police confirm that the man in the home on Argonne Drive is responsible for both incidents that took place in Portsmouth this morning.

Police are not releasing the names of the suspect or victims at this time.

The suspect had a previous domestic violence charge against him and there was a restraining order in effect between the suspect and one of the victims.

A school spokesperson says the school immediately went into lockdown. Police say the lockdown lasted about two hours.

There will be a prayer Service tonight at St. Mary's at 7pm. There is no school tomorrow for Notre Dame Elementary, but counseling will be available tomorrow.

Update at 11:52
WSAZ has now confirmed the first incident. It was a stabbing on 11th street. The victim was a woman and she has been life-flighted to the hospital. We do not know the relation to this first incident on the record, but police tell us they believe it is connected. The second incident -- the shooting at the school --- happened a short time after this stabbing, according to police.

Update 11:44
WSAZ has confirmed the teacher is in the emergency room at Cabell Huntington Hospital and listed in critical condition.

Update at 11:35
WSAZ's Randy Yohe reports that two new SWAT teams have just shown up at the home on Argonne Road. The police chief in Portsmouth tells Randy that this is still a volatile situation. Randy also says more ambulances have also shown up at the scene with one pulling close to the home.

Police tell us that they will release information about these incidents at another location away from the scene. We will bring this information as we get it.

Portsmouth police are not giving out information at this point on the first incident. WSAZ is trying to confirm information about the other incident -- not the one at the school. Understandably, police are all tied up with the situation on Argonne Road at this point.

Update at 11:09
Portsmouth City Schools are no longer in lockdown.

Update
From the Associated Press --
Police say a teacher has been shot by her husband at a school in the southern Ohio city of Portsmouth.

Authorities say no children were hurt at Notre Dame Elementary,
which has about 150 students.

Police say the man left the building and that they're in the
process of arresting him. They're not giving further details.

The woman's condition isn't known.

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Columbus says the school and
another Catholic school in Portsmouth were locked down for a time.

The office manager of a Methodist church across the street from
the Notre Dame school says she watched as parents began taking
their children home around 10:30.

Update
Randy Yohe just spoke with a state highway patrolman who was on the scene at the school. He says to Randy that the teacher was shot AND stabbed in her classroom at the elementary school.

===

Police in Portsmouth, Ohio, tell WSAZ a female teacher has been shot on the steps of an elementary school.

It happened at Notre Dame Elementary in Portsmouth, Ohio.
We're being told that police believe the teacher and the shooter had a domestic relationship.

Police confirm there are two shootings inside the city and police believe they may be related. The situation has now moved to an area of Argonne Road.

PARENTS NEED TO GO TO HOLY REDEEMER ELEMENTARY'S ACITIVITIES CENTER TO PICK UP THEIR CHILDREN. It is right next to the Notre Dame Elementary School.

WSAZ's Carrie Cline reports that most students are now picked up and most were unaware of anything happening at the school until they got briefed after the incident. No students were injured during this situation.

Witnesses tell us that streets around the school are being closed.

WSAZ's Randy Yohe is on the scene on Argonne Road where he says police have barricaded a man inside a home. They believe he has several weapons with him. The mayor of Portsmouth Jim Kalb tells us that they are waiting for a SWAT team to arrive.

A student reporter from Shawnee State tells us that there are police representatives from New Boston Police, Scioto County Sheriff's Department, State Highway Patrol and the Portsmouth Police are on the scene on Argonn Road. There is a two block area sealed off around Argonne Road, according to the Shawnee State reporter.

Stay with WSAZ.com for more information.

**** If you have pictures or video of the school or shooting scene, please e-mail them to pix@wsaz.com. DO NOT put your own safety in jeopardy to get pictures for us.
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Posted by: Anonymous on Apr 25, 2008 at 09:50 AM
We wonder why these terrible acts are happening in our schools. We let them take out GOD and the Ten Commandments, prayer and the Pledge. Hum, Sounds like we need to invite GOD back in and teach kids their is more to life than Nintendo, and material things. One much bigger, the LORD, needs to be taught. May GOD watch over Notre Dame and their recovery..This is and will always be a terrific school. I hope the teacher is doing better. Love and prayers. Lewis County Mother
Posted by: MOM OF 5TH GRADER on Feb 20, 2008 at 10:44 AM
MY DAUGHTER WITNESSED SOMETHING TERRIBLE THAT DAY AND I HOPE MISS GREENUP LADY YOU NEVER ARE FACED WITH THIS ISSUE.GOD SAYS WE SHALL NEVER JUDGE PEOPLE AND I WILL PRAY FOR YOU AS WELL.NOTRE DAME IS A GREAT SCHOOL AND I TRUST THEM WITH ALL MY HEART. THEY TOOK CARE OF MY DAUGHTER AND I AM VERY THANKFUL.WE NEED POSITIVE PEOPLE TO PRAY FOR OUR CHILDREN AND THATS THE BOTTOM LINE.IF YOU HAVE SO MUCH TIME ON YOUR HANDS TO COMMENT AND CRITICIZE MAYBE YOU SHOULD VOLUNTEER AND HELP PEOPLE. WE LOVE YOU NOTRE DAME. IM VERY PROUD TO BE A PART OF NOTRE DAME.
Posted by: Greenup County Thank God! on Feb 19, 2008 at 09:34 PM
NDE parent: So very happy to hear the door problem has been solved. Thank God!To address your statement about the lockdown. Yes, it was good that they locked down the school and I commend the speed at which they did this, but again the issue is that a man with weapons got into your school. The lockdown should never have been necessary. That is my point. I have seen the video, he jiggled one door and then walked right in the other door. No one stopped him. NO ONE. That is NOT protection, that is an open door policy. I agree that no child is 100% safe anywhere anymore, but I would hope that NDE has improved the safety of their children substantially. You're right this could have happened at any school, where there's a will there's a way. But lets deter these criminals anyway we can, it sounds like you all have started to tighten up the front lines on that issue. Good for you, good for the kids, good for the staff of NDE! My prayers are with you all. Amen
Posted by: NDE parent on Feb 18, 2008 at 02:21 PM
In response to Greenup County, as a parent of 2 children @ NDE the door problem has been solved! That is what we NDE parents are doing to ensure our children's safety. As for the students being on Lockdown after the shots, what do you want the administration to do? Let the students roam freely throughout the building during this crisis? All the students were locked down inside of their classrooms away from windows! I believe that our children are as safe as any child could be out of their parents sight. This tragedy could have happened in ANY school. The fact remains that our children are never 100% safe ANYWHERE!! That is just the world we live in sadly! I am very thankful to the NDE teachers/staff, and the local law enforcement for keeping my children safe.
Posted by: ND Supporter on Feb 15, 2008 at 01:36 PM
The doors at NDE and NDHS are locked at all times. The doors cannot be opened from the outside. The doors will only open from the inside if someone pushes a button that is located higher than a child can reach. Because of fire saftey codes, ND was told to install a sensor that would open the door for fifteen seconds should a child need to get out in an emergency. I do not agree with this change. I think it would make more sense for the locks to be linked to the fire alarm system. If the fire alarm goes off, the doors automatically unlock. Unfortunately, I think it has come time for schools to consider using bullet-proof glass on all first floor windows and doors. The cost would be high, but the benefits and peace of mind would be worth it. Funding needs to be made available for ALL schools, not just public ones. Those are my suggestions, for what they are worth. Until someone in our government steps forward to make it a priority, nothing will change. We cannot make $$ magically appear.
Posted by: Protect Schools on Feb 13, 2008 at 10:31 AM
If we can spend over 15 million dollars to protect one Government Official to make a needless visit Iraq. Why can't we hire security guards for schools? Medal detectors and entry points. In this case didn't the school know about the husband? Why would he be granted access inside the school? Why would entering a school be any different that getting in a federal building or airplane or a courthouse? How many shootups do you hear about on planes of federal buildings?
Posted by: Rick on Feb 13, 2008 at 08:13 AM
Hey, Any new update on the condition of the teacher would be nice. It is hard to stay in touch when living out of town. Thanks for your coverage to date.
Posted by: Greenup County on Feb 12, 2008 at 10:06 PM
In response to Informed Student: Thank you very much for the information on how the shooter got into the school. I now understand the problems faced by NDE. Saying that the school was put on lockdown within seconds of the shots is like saying that they pulled the bullet out of a victim within seconds of being shot. It doesn't change the fact that an injury occured and it doesn't fix the problem. The shooter DID get into the school and he DID injure Mrs. Layne, you can't change that by locking down the school after the fact. Instead they could have locked the shooter in with the students making a bad situation worse. The issue here is how could they have prevented the problem and what are they going to do. I am so tired of the Portsmouth attitude of listing reasons why they can't do something. I want to hear some chatter about what they CAN do, how can the parents help to fix this problem. What are you NDE parents going to do to ensure the safety of your children from now on?
Posted by: Greenup County on Feb 12, 2008 at 09:36 PM
In response to ND Supporter: All I am saying is that if I felt strongly about spending money to send my children to a private school for most of their day I certainly would insist that my child be safe while there. Even if it meant that the parents had to volunteer to guard the doors, taking names and when needed contacting the office to verify that someone has legitimate business there. I would not feel comfortable dropping off my children to a building where it is so easy for anyone to enter. Apparently all you have to do now is wait for a child to go to the bathroom and you are in. What about doors that only open from the inside? I'm just saying that I would rather my children be safe and have a chance at growing up than have them in a school where there are very few safeguards to protect them. The bottom line is they were NOT protected on that day. Now stop telling me why you can't protect your children and instead tell me what you are going to do to ensure their safety now.
Posted by: ND Supporter on Feb 12, 2008 at 10:53 AM
Those who are criticizing ND and its security system need to wake up. Where do you suggest we get the funding it will take to purchase all this new "up-to-date" equipment? We do the absolute best we can to protect our children with the little funds we have. Many think that being a "private" school means being a wealthy school. That is just not the case. Yes, it would be wonderful to be able to have a system where all visitors are buzzed right into the main office. Unfortunately, our school building is old and the layout does not make that possible. Our buzzer system has worked very well in the past. Maybe fire codes need to be changed or modified to prevent this situation from happening again, seeing as that is how the shooter was able to gain access in the first place. Stop pointing fingers at people when you don't know the whole story. Maybe you have a few hundred thousand dollars to spare for ND and Portsmouth for all these updates you suggest.
Posted by: Informed Student on Feb 12, 2008 at 10:35 AM
I just wanted to let everyone know exactly how Mr. Layne got in. A little while ago NDE was scolded for having doors that are always locked. You had to buzz the office to be allowed entrance, and you had to hit a button to unlock the door in order to leave the school building. This was a fire violation, so a sensor was installed. The sensor, when triggered, unlocks the door for fifteen seconds, to allow a child to run out of the building with no obstacles in case of a fire. Someone triggered the sensor (likely on the way to the bathroom), and Mr. Layne got in on the 13th second. The Elementary was on lockdown within SECONDS of the shots being fired.
Posted by: Teacher on Feb 12, 2008 at 08:33 AM
I am making a comment to Greenup County's post on Feb. 11 about the shooter never being able to get into the school. I agree with some of the things you say, however most schools, public and private, have their main entrance doors open for parents to enter and other visitors such as deliveries, etc. We shouldn't judge ND about the shooter getting in, that could happen anywhere. What we should be talking about is how to not let this happen again. I think that most of the newer schools are having "buzzer systems" and that is probably what ND should check into having. Praise needs to go out though to the teachers and other staff members that no one else was hurt, this could have been a much more devastating incident than it was. Mrs. Layne and Mrs. Loop along with the children in that classroom will have to live with these horrible memories for the rest of their lives. We all need to pray for them and their families and come together as a community and stop this from ever happening.
Posted by: shane on Feb 12, 2008 at 06:45 AM
lay off the interview with 11 yr. Old girl!! Other classmates did interviews and you people are not talking about them!!!!!
Posted by: Greenup County on Feb 12, 2008 at 01:22 AM
Finally, my heartfelt prayers go out to Christi and Stepanie and their families. God bless them and keep them safe and well. To all the students at NDE I wish recovery and forgetfulness, that they may never think of this horrible day again. Portsmouth, get out there and fix the mess you call a city and make it somewhere you can all be proud of. Sweep the streets, plant some trees, clean up the parks and make them somewhere that people want to come to again. Stop looking away from crime and look it square in the face and ban it from your community. Amen
Posted by: worried mother on Feb 12, 2008 at 01:00 AM
I am very glad to hear the women involved are doing good. My hats off to the teacher for protecting the children first. I really appreciate that. The issue of our childrens safety troubles me. If we had security guards in our schools, like we do our factories, and shopping centers, I would feel more at ease. And what about metal detectors? it is sad to see more security at mom and pop stores than the place you send you children with better hope for the future. I would like to see my tax dollars go toward better security.
Posted by: Greenup County on Feb 12, 2008 at 12:55 AM
Mr. Layne should have never gotten into that school. Cameras and buzzers? Are we in the 1950s? Do the parents of NDE realize that they are paying good money for inferior and outdated security. You're paying for this! And they have only had that security for 1 1/2 years. It was outdated when it was utilized. Why bother putting it in? At all schools in Greenup County, no matter how well they know you, you cannot get into the school without going through procedures. All doors are locked when the children are there. You have one door to go through and you must get buzzed in there. At that time you enter the office and show ID then you sign a sheet stating arrival time, name, where you are going in the school and what you are going to do. You are given an ID badge and then are buzzed through another door. When you are done you sign back out at the office and surrender your ID badge. I doubt it cost the school system much, but the kids are protected. And that is the bottom line.
Posted by: Portsmouthslam on Feb 12, 2008 at 12:02 AM
I lived in Portsmouth for 15 years. I am familiar with the ND school system. I hope that this is finally a wake up call for Portsmouth and Scioto County. As a victim of domestic violence in Scioto County I can attest to the fact that there is very little protection afforded to the victim there. It is often viewed as a 'family problem' and the victim who finally gathers up enough nerve to get a protection order or speak up about her situation is just causing trouble. In Scioto County you can expect you attacker to be permitted to break into your house often and when he appears before a judge he will be exonerated because it's an 'isolated incident', he had a good excuse and he will never do it again. Tape recordings of threats will be lost in the courthouse, you will be ridiculed for being so 'imaginative' and men will stop you in the store to explain that they hit their wives and their wives know how to keep their mouths shut. These men will not be tested for drugs...(continued)
Posted by: Teacher on Feb 11, 2008 at 10:28 PM
I just wanted to say that so far what I have read on here has not all been true things that happened on that awful day. The woman on 11th street wasnt at a pizza shop she was at home and she too has a family and a young child that no one has said anything about. As a teacher it concerns me that this man was able to do what he did,we as a community really need to look at the safety of our children. What can we do to prevent this again? We all feel bad when it happened out of state but its here now. What are we going to do? My thoughts go out to the Layne family as well as the Loop family. Especially to any children involved in this.
Posted by: NDHS student on Feb 11, 2008 at 08:28 PM
You would have ever thought that someone would come over to a private school. You ALWAYS hear about public school shootings, but NEVER a private school shooting. I mean wouldn't that be the last place you would think of. I'm just glad my brother and my sister are safe at home with me.
Posted by: ND Alum Jan on Feb 11, 2008 at 08:12 PM
Let me first start off by saying ,as an alumni of Notre Dame and strong supporter of the school system, WE WILL RISE Above this horrible tragdy and be even stronger because of it. Our faith in our Lord will carry us through. We are blessed to be apart of a system that puts God first and we are not ashamed of it.A miracle occured during this horrible event, God sent His angels to protect Christi and ALL the children, no doubt about it.Prayers were being said while it was all happening and God listened, because it could have been so much worse. My thoughts and prayers are with Christi and all the students especially the brave 5th graders who had to witness it. I've always been proud to be a Titan but not has much as I am now!!!!
Posted by: Travis on Feb 11, 2008 at 02:32 PM
I am sorry to hear about the teacher! I know someone that used to teach there. I wish for the teacher to get well. My prayers are with her and her students. Also friends and family.
Posted by: scared on Feb 11, 2008 at 01:36 PM
I hope that the city of Portsmouth starts to take domestic violence more seriously being a young divorced parent I am scared that my ex-husband may try to kill me now. This hits very close to home and I don't think that people take into consideration that it could be them or that domestic violence is so serious and not so hush, hush!
Posted by: ND Supporter on Feb 11, 2008 at 12:55 PM
We need to keep in mind that this investigation is still very new. There are certain aspects that cannot be revealed to the general public because there are children involved. NO ONE allowed Mr. Layne to enter that school building on Thursday. He was not "buzzed" in. Also, no one held the door for him either. The school and its staff are in no way responsible for the way he entered that building. Having known the Layne family for many years, I can tell you that this was a happy family until a year or so ago. Drugs and alcohol can cause terrible pain and suffering for many, not just those who live with the abuser. Unfortunately, this was made clear last Thursday. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of all involved and with the students and staff at NDE. This is a truly wonderful school system that will only be made stronger by this tragedy.
Posted by: sherrie anne on Feb 11, 2008 at 10:36 AM
the other shooting was on 11,st in portsmouth at the pizza place mr.gatti's he went they and then he went to the school that should not of happen it is a sad day for them all thank to all of you people on here
Posted by: Parent on Feb 11, 2008 at 10:12 AM
A rainbow appeared over our school this morning.
Posted by: Parent of 4 on Feb 11, 2008 at 09:40 AM
I would just like to say thank you to wsaz for all the great tasteful coverage of these horrific events!!! I would also like to say that I have 4 daughters 15, 13, and 10 year old twins.. They all attend greenup county and the school security systems make my not worry about my children. I go and drop off snacks all the time for parties or whatever elese, I have to be buzzed in, then sign a paper stating my purpose for being there and have to recieve a pass issued by the office, when I am finished with that I am then buzzed again to go into the main part of the school!! Thank you GREENUP COUNTY for keeping my children safe..
Posted by: Bill on Feb 11, 2008 at 09:05 AM
FOR ALL YOU PEOPLE OUT HERE WHO KEEPS PUTTING DOWN WSAZ AND PORTSMOUTH POLICE DEPT. AND OTHER AGENCYS THAT RESPONDED. YOU ARE WHAT I CALL KEYBOARD HEROS.LAY OFF THESE FINE PEOPLE DOING THERE JOB.YOU SAT IN YOUR EASY CHAIR AND WATCH, YOU MADE A CALL YOU KNEW NOTHING ABOUT BECAUSE YOUR KEESTER WAS NOT THERE IN PERSON TO GET IT FIRST HAND.SO A LOT OF YOU MADE UP YOUR OWN MIND AND WROTE IN STATED THINGS THAT NEVER WERE. THERE IS ONE THING THE POLICE AND ESPECIALLY WSAZ DOES THAT YOU KEYBOARD HEROS DO NOT DO. THEY GET THE FACTS, THE TRUTH AND DISCARD THE LIES.
Posted by: slow burn on Feb 11, 2008 at 07:48 AM
steve robinette the children are NOT "unhurt" as you say.no not physically hurt but psychologically,you can be sure of that
Posted by: Time on Feb 11, 2008 at 07:13 AM
Before you make rude comments about how wsaz didnt post your comment give it a day or two sometimes it take time to get your post on here. Praying for all families involved, and for the children who witnessed this.
Posted by: scared student on Feb 11, 2008 at 06:29 AM
If this could happen to mrs.layne it could proably happen again
Posted by: Stephanie on Feb 10, 2008 at 10:05 PM
My prayers go out to Ms. Layne and her family and also to Stephanie Loop and her family as well. May the Good Lord be with you all at this time.
Posted by: Local teacher on Feb 10, 2008 at 09:36 PM
I want to praise the staff at Notre Dame. They did fantastic in keeping the children safe during this horrible incident. My prayers go out for Mrs. Layne, the other victim, the students and staff and the family members of the victims. I also want to say thank you to WSAZ for keeping the viewers up to date.
Posted by: Mary on Feb 10, 2008 at 09:28 PM
Sad that you wouldn't post my message from Saturday morning concerning Randy Yohe trying to lay blame on the school or even Mrs. Layne that it was the shooters fault. And that my prayers went out to everyone involved in this horrific incident. Guess my message must have hit close to home!
Posted by: Macy on Feb 10, 2008 at 07:42 PM
Christi Layne was my 5th grade teacher, I am now in college, but this whole ordeal is shocking. My entire community is in my thoughts and prayers at this time.
Posted by: concerned mother on Feb 10, 2008 at 07:16 PM
I have 2 children that was there that day and they have to return to school tomorrow, although coverage by wsaz was excellent, I ask that you please be considerate to the children, teachers, and all of the individuals involved so that your promo's of breaking news is not a constant reminder of the events of that day, when is so fresh in the childrens minds, I am sure there will be children with separation anxiety when they return to there classroom.
Posted by: D on Feb 10, 2008 at 06:33 PM
If there was a restraing order, I believe the school needs to speak up. Why and how could they have let him in?
Posted by: Anonymous on Feb 10, 2008 at 05:28 PM
Just to let everyone know, the school did not "buzz" this man in. He was able to bypass the security somehow. The staff did their job and did it perfectly! God Bless them all! As a parent please rememember, never hold the door open for another adult when you enter a school building, each person needs to be cleared individually. I know this seems rude but unfortunately it is necessary. Also make sure the door completely latches behind you. Please keep all of Notre Dame in your prayers!
Posted by: bre on Feb 10, 2008 at 04:43 PM
we just pray for her!!!
Posted by: SOMEBODY on Feb 10, 2008 at 04:24 PM
i just can't believe this town anymore. that is really sad for what happen to that teacher and the other girl. i think the school should have something done so this don't happen again...we have kids that go to school to learn not to see violents. i have 2 kids that go to school and i am scared for them to be there now.anyways the protection orders don't work. i have one on my ex and he still bothers me and threatens me everyday. TPO'S won't stop anybody if they want to do something to you then they will. well i will pray for the teacher and all.
Posted by: ReSheena Shiveley on Feb 10, 2008 at 03:39 PM
I think it was a horrible thing that happened. I feel for the family's of the victims and I wish them a full recovery and the best. I think the authorities of Scioto County done a great job, but they couldn't help what he did in the end. They tried their best to. Everyone done what was expected for them to do that day.
Posted by: chrissy frazee on Feb 10, 2008 at 02:58 PM
as a mother of three it scares the heck out of me to know that he made it in the school i have walked in the ports high school several times when nobody would be at the front desk so i would go on through what if i was a monster i could have done the same thing there needs to be better secerity at the schools my prayers go out to both victims and as a person who knows stephanie i dont know why he would want to hurt such a good person as for the teacher it seems like she is very loved by her students i wish her the best but lets not forget our schools need alot better security asap i am a friend of a mother that has a child in nd i called her that morning to let her know what was going on i cant explain to you how awful it was to hear her screaming my baby girl is in there please my baby girl no parent should have to feel that way so whats going to be done to make shure these kids and teachers are safe i was at the argone rd location the whole time i thank everbody done a great job
Posted by: Marie on Feb 10, 2008 at 08:34 AM
It goes to show...people need to understand what their medicine is doing to them. Also let your doctor know if there is a change in your habbits...and what the changes are. Medicine can be very dangerous...if not taken properly. My thoughts and prayers are with all involved.
Posted by: Anonymous on Feb 10, 2008 at 08:10 AM
I am having trouble with this senario: Restraint order in place against man... Man permitted entrance into school building where there is security in place. I mean, you NEVER know, but there was a restraint order in place! Someone should have checked before he was permitted to enter the building. God bless the victims of violent crimes.
Posted by: Compliments and prayers on Feb 10, 2008 at 06:09 AM
WSAZ delievered excellent reporting on this story both locally and nationally and we pray for all the victims. There are so many. When Protective Orderes are signed both persons need to be mandated for testing and counseling for preventative measures to future incidents.
Posted by: Nurse on Feb 9, 2008 at 11:27 PM
Everyone needs to remerber that there are 3 families involved. May God bless each of them. I feel for the victims and their families and also of for Mr. Laynes family. I have a child in school and I can't imagine what the kids are going thru and I pray never has to experence it. I have read the comments on this page and I must say that the 11 year old that the news interviewed, had to have permission from the parent or a legal adult. Yes I agree that children should not have to "repeat what they saw", but the adults should have said "no". It's now the news broadcast to blame. I'm sure everyone of you were glued to the TV. I think that WSAZ, the PPD, OSP, Sheriffs Dept, Portsmouth Fire Dept, and our EMS all did a great job, and was putting their own lives in danger.
Posted by: Jamie on Feb 9, 2008 at 11:12 PM
I think to the person who was questioning what Randy Yohe was saying about the school maybe being at fault, it was meant as saying that if the school & everyone in it (staff-wise) knew of the restraining order, which it's been told they did, then how did he get through a security system where you have to be buzzed into the school without someone realizing he wasn't supposed to be there due to that order? I think that was the point that was trying to be made. People have verified there is a security type system in place, but then how does he get in if supposedly people were made aware of the order. Someone who let him in either didn't know or else just buzzed him in anyway. I think that's what they need to find out b/c if he can get in with an order against him, then who else can get into our schools once a security system is in place. I think all schools need to practice the lockdowns, like a student mentioned, and have some kind of security system in place to protect our children.
Posted by: mommy2 on Feb 9, 2008 at 09:32 PM
I want to thank wsaz for keeping us updated by what was going on. I have a daughter a West Elem. I was unable to leave my work as we were on lock down, I work just 3 blocks from Argoone Road, being able to hear what was going on was very helpful, also thanks to radio station 93 for the coverage that they gave. May God bless both the Layne family and also the Loop family, our prayers to both of them. Also thanks to West Elem. for the lockdown drills that my daughter tells me they have every so often, it makes me fill better knowing that they are on top of things.
Posted by: emma stundent last year on Feb 9, 2008 at 07:41 PM
Hi I just can't Belive it I was seating in class and they call local down we all were saced so mrs.lanye when u come back to school get ready for a hug
Posted by: Cindy on Feb 9, 2008 at 07:06 PM
God Bless all of them...Lets keep them in our prayers...
Posted by: Anonymous2 on Feb 9, 2008 at 06:12 PM
Law enforrcement had a great reponse, but I would also like to thank all the Portsmouth area EMS agencies who responded so appropriately in this incident - Potsmouth Ambulance, LIFE Ambulance, and ABLE ambulance, the EM providers don't have weapons, or body armor, but regardless responded rapidly and worked together during the crisis,all Portsmouth Area residents should be proud of the local EMS providers like Portsmouth, LIFE, and ABLE who put it on the line in emergency situations for their communities every day
Posted by: Anonymous on Feb 9, 2008 at 05:53 PM
What kind of person shoots and stabs a teacher in front of her students? People are so evil now a days. My thoughts and prayers are with Christi Layne and Stephanie Loop.
Posted by: Lisa on Feb 9, 2008 at 04:56 PM
May God bless these children and their families as they go on with their daily lifes.This is a very sad situation that seems to be hitting closer to home every day. It will take a while for things to pass but the tragic scene will and may never pass. We need to do something fast to keep this same thing from happening ever again. Being a mom myself I am sure every parents was on pins and needles. Come on let's get this fixed , there is no need in no more lifes being taken and wasted because of us just looking the other way or because our money needs to go else where.These are our kids our future wake up. I am sure the law did all they could do but it's time to do more and protect our future. May God bless all of you .
Posted by: BreeAnna Dial on Feb 9, 2008 at 04:35 PM
I fill sorry for that teacher beacas she was a good teacher to her class she would tell you the truth o.k.
Posted by: teacher on Feb 9, 2008 at 12:17 PM
I am praying for the victims and their families. It truly is a tragedy. As a teacher at a Scioto County school, you never think something like this could happen close to home. It just goes to show how important it is to have a secure environment for not only the students but the faculty as well. I am so saddened for the families, the victims, and the staff at NDE. My thoughts and prayers are with each and every one of them. May God bless them!
Posted by: A local Mom on Feb 9, 2008 at 12:09 PM
As a mother whose children attend Notre Dame Elementary(though they aren't in 5th grade), I can vouch that there IS a security system in place. For about a year or so, if parents need to enter the building, they press a button and announce who they are and why they are there and are "buzzed" in to the main office. The system is not perfect, but to have people here speculating that there is no security system in place is a gross falsehood. It's sad to say, but if someone has an "agenda", they will most likely find a way into any locked place. I don't think any place can be 100% protected.
Posted by: Braeden on Feb 9, 2008 at 11:13 AM
I am a student at notre dame Jr. High School. I know mrs. Layne is getting well. I had her for fifth grade and she was a fun teacher!! My family and I will still keep her in our Prayers and Hearts!!
Posted by: britt on Feb 9, 2008 at 09:51 AM
i cant belive that teacher was all most killed at a school i hope people relize that they need to do more to keep our school safe i mean who to say it will not happen again
Posted by: Mary on Feb 9, 2008 at 08:59 AM
I attended NDE, my son attended NDE and I actually had family that was involved in this horrific incident. I don't understand why media feel the need to put the blame on someone. I watched Randy Yohe interview the brother-in-law and it was mentioned again that possibly ND was at fault or Mrs. Layne for not disclosing the domestic situation to the school. NO! THE SHOOTER IS AT FAULT and is now gone so can't be held accountable for the events. Should everyone that's in a domestic situation be made to quit there jobs, lose everything and sit at home as not to injure anyone if their spouse decides to attack? Randy Yohe and all media that feel the need to pin the blame on someone, think about what you are saying, is it realistic? Kudos to law enforcement and staff who handled this horrible event so effectively.My prayers to all involved in this horrible situation including the troubled soul of the shooter.
Posted by: Breeanna on Feb 9, 2008 at 12:47 AM
See was a very good teacher to her student. They miss her very much beacaus she was good to evrey one even to stranger to.
Posted by: ND Alum on Feb 9, 2008 at 12:20 AM
I want to thank the Portsmouth Police Department and all other law enforcement involved in this event. My mother and my niece were both in the school building during this whole ordeal. I also want to commend the news for the wonderful coverage, as I live out of town and I was able to log onto WSAZ and keep up to date on the entire event. Mrs. Layne was my 5th grade teacher... and one of the most wonderful and caring individuals I've ever known. My prayers are with her and her family as well as the students and faculty of Notre Dame. I cannot thank God enough for protecting my mother, my niece, and all of the faculty and students in that building.
Posted by: Kathy S on Feb 8, 2008 at 10:57 PM
Thank you WSAZ for continuing to update up on the condition of both victims I'm so sorry that both of them are going through so much pain Ms. Layne is enduring so much more than just physical pain. She's going to have to deal with the fact that a man she was married to for so long & I'm sure loved for many of those years could commit such a horrible crime. AND she has to deal with his death as well. They have a son too don't they? Think I read that. So she's going to know the pain he's going through too. PLUS she has to deal with the horror that was inflicted on her students & you know she's going to place blame on herself for that when it was NOT her fault My prayers really goes out to her and her son as well as Jennifer & all the kids who were in Ms Layne's class. God bless & be with all of them Their pain & healing is going to take a LONG LONG time so they need our thoughts/prayers Our hearts/prayers are with all of you
Posted by: drugs and pray for the family on Feb 8, 2008 at 10:16 PM
We automatically want to assume that this man was a monster, but from what I hear, he was a good man until he had surgery, and became hooked on pain meds. People need to stop and think before they take pain meds. Even the best people can get hooked on them and go crazy and do these types of things. Remember, these two were once a happy family, and have two wonderful sons, and were expecting their first grandchild. He will never see this baby, because of the choices he made Thursday. I pray their two sons find comfort with the Lord, and that their mother recovers. I also pray for the children in that classroom and in that school, and all over the community. It was not easy explaining to my children why their school was on lockdown, and why mommy is glued to the TV.
Posted by: Steve Robinette on Feb 8, 2008 at 10:03 PM
What a tragedy to hear about. I am so thankful to see the Children are all unhurt. I am sure this entire community will suffer for years to come. The entire team of responders deserve a Big Congratulations. What an Awesome display Of good training, God Bless You All
Posted by: lynn on Feb 8, 2008 at 08:03 PM
our prayer's and thoughts go out to the victim's and everyone thats involved.hope you have a speedy recovery.
Posted by: Christina on Feb 8, 2008 at 08:02 PM
My heart goes out to the kids who witnessed what happened at Notre Dame Elementary school yesterday. For someone to do this is just horrible. As I am from the Portsmouth area myself, I had to call my sister just to make sure everything was ok. She was in lock down at work herself and she is six months pregnant. I am praying for the victims as well.
Posted by: Bryan on Feb 8, 2008 at 07:20 PM
Sad
Posted by: Lisa on Feb 8, 2008 at 06:19 PM
I just don't believe that this man was a "good guy." If he was she would not have felt the need to get a protection order against him. It stated she was afraid of him and that was done in December. Just because those who worked with him and lived next door to him says he was nice don't mean he was nice to her in private. I just hope she and the other lady hurt gets better real soon. God Bless them.
Posted by: J on Feb 8, 2008 at 06:12 PM
I go to Rock Hill and today they announced that today we would start practiceing lockdowns and teachers have to keeop doors locked all the time but they lock the doors anyway
Posted by: cartercoky on Feb 8, 2008 at 05:33 PM
This is such a horrible tragedy.MY heart and prayers go out to all the families.This will haunt those children for years to come. I know this because it happened out here years ago when a teacher and janitor was killed.I know some of the children that witnessed this and they still have nightmares and insecurities. May god be with these children through the coming years.
Posted by: worried mother on Feb 8, 2008 at 05:26 PM
I feel all school should be updated with some kind of security as visitors enter a school building. One school in particular that has no security at all is rosemount schools. Any one can come and go. My daughter goes to morning Latch key I drop her off between 6:30 - 7:00am when she gets there the gym door sometimes is standing wide open. I always tell her if someone would ever come in there with a gun or someone that looks like they dont belong there run to a class room and hide.Its really scary to think that anyone could just walk right in and hurt my child. Even when the door is closed it still isnt locked anyone could still get in. Or even through the day when you walk in the main enterance there are no doors seperating you from the children there's a sign that says stop at office, but that isnt going to stop someone that wants to kidnap or hurt a child.New schools would be nice but for now are kids need to be protected. Before something bad happens first. Could Randy look into this
Posted by: S on Feb 8, 2008 at 05:14 PM
Is this the woman that was on the news not too long ago wanting to bring a gun to the elementary school to protect herself from her significant other ? It was in the tri-state area!
Posted by: Sharon on Feb 8, 2008 at 04:57 PM
God Bless the Children of Mrs Layne who have suffered a double tragedy - the loss of their father and the anger of their father towards their mother. All victims are in my thoughts and prayers. May the healing begin.
Posted by: MOM OF FIFTH GRADER on Feb 8, 2008 at 04:14 PM
I COMMEND EVERYONE IN OUR COMMUNITY FOR ALL THEIR PRAYERS AND HELP.MY DAUGHTER WAS IN THE ROOM AND WITNESSED THIS ORDEAL. THANK YOU EVERYONE FOR YOUR PRAYERS. OUR CHILDREN NEED THEM
Posted by: slow burn on Feb 8, 2008 at 03:53 PM
this shows the problems with domestic violence and mental illness-now those poor kids will have to deal with what they saw for the rest of their lives. all the best to the teacher & girlfriend; i hope they recover & sorry for what they went through. hope everyone gets the help they will need
Posted by: Jim on Feb 8, 2008 at 03:46 PM
My heart and prayers go out to the Portsmouth area, church, family and friends connected with this tragedy in any way. There is not way a community can prepare for such tragedy, however, we have to trust God to repair and restore.
Posted by: concerned viewer on Feb 8, 2008 at 03:38 PM
Would you please take the commercial off that replays this tragic event. Personally I feel as though the children have been through enough without having to see this over and over again
Posted by: NDE Mom on Feb 8, 2008 at 03:32 PM
God Bless you Christi and I'm praying for your new grandson's arrival. I hope you heal quickly and can have him in your arms in no time! We all want you back as soon as you feel ready....
Posted by: Teacher on Feb 8, 2008 at 03:25 PM
People ask how someone can walk in a school- well we talked in our school today. If one of our spouses would comein know one would suspect anything. Spouses come to school to change out vehicles, eat lunch with spouses, etc. You never really think about this unless told ahead to be on the look out.
Posted by: A.S. on Feb 8, 2008 at 02:11 PM
From one teacher to another, my prayers are with Ms. Layne and her students.
Posted by: Julie on Feb 8, 2008 at 01:35 PM
I've lived in Portsmouth almost my whole life. It is such a small community and for something like this to happen is shocking. I agree with some of the comments below, shame on WSAZ for interviewing the little girl that witnessed the shooting in the classroom!!! How many school shootings have to happen before something is done such as metal detectors placed in EACH school??
Posted by: Rob on Feb 8, 2008 at 01:09 PM
I want to commend WSAZ news for your up to date coverage. Many think it was too much info. You were only reporting the obvious and frankly, if you hadn't been doing that, the same people would be talking about the lack of information. You kept a small community together, and I think you kept down the fears and panic by alllowing your audience to see it was isolated and help was there. Kudos for a job well done.
Posted by: Trampas on Feb 8, 2008 at 12:47 PM
It was w/o a doubt a horrific situation. I am thankful my friends didnt lose both parents! Although my friend Mike is gone, he was still a friend and a great father who helped in raising two outstanding sons. Mike himself was an outstanding guy! He made a mistake I am sure he now regrets. Anyone who can slander this man (Mike) w/o knowing him, obviously have lived a perfect life w/o ANY kind of illness. My thoughts are with anyone affected by yesterdays tragic events! It is very sad that this has happened.... I hope Mike has found peace! The whole Layne family have went through something none of us ever want to deal with. Please be courtious in what u write...... Mike was still their father, and was himself loved by many. May Cristi and Stephanie both have a full and speedy recovery!
Posted by: heather on Feb 8, 2008 at 12:13 PM
i am so sorry wat happen and i think is wrong what he done. i just don't know what is going though the childrens mind because they had to see this.
Posted by: Misty on Feb 8, 2008 at 12:00 PM
This is EXACTLY Why School Doors should be locked during School Hours. Now what do these children have to live with seeing for the rest of their lives. It's terrible...it's not even safe to send your child to school.
Posted by: response to pirate student on Feb 8, 2008 at 11:46 AM
Wheelersburg was on lockdown we couldnt leave or no one could come in it just was not like a normal lockdown drill
Posted by: Anonymous on Feb 8, 2008 at 11:46 AM
Bless the brave ND community. My prayers are with Christi, her family, and Ms. Loop. My prayers are also with the children of NDE. I believe SSU acted appropriately. Thank you WSAZ for the coverage.
Posted by: ND Mom on Feb 8, 2008 at 11:43 AM
I have had children in the Notre Dame school system for 16 years. In no other school system will you find such a close knit relationship between the teachers, students and their families. I am devastated that this has happened to our school and our community, but am deeply grateful that we have such wonderful teachers and faculty who were there to protect our children. The way they handled this unimaginable tragedy speaks volumes of their integrity and their commitment to our children. My prayers are with all involved and I know that God will bring us through this tragedy and together we will begin to heal. I would also like to commend all law enforcement agencies for their quick response and handling of this terrible crisis. Their expertise is to be applauded. Please keep us in your prayers.
Posted by: OSU on Feb 8, 2008 at 11:29 AM
I would like to take up for interviewing the child. I'm quite confident in saying that I'm sure Ms. Cline asked the guardian for permission first. That interview brought the story home for many viewers AND the nation. Kudos. As for the "2 hour long headcount" remark--the PPD said in its news conference that they interviewed the staff and students about the events of yesterday morning. That part of the investigation is what took so long--not the "head count." Finally, I wish some of these people would learn how to spell and use proper grammar! Their spelling and grammar make their remarks silly.
Posted by: Matt on Feb 8, 2008 at 11:25 AM
I would like to express my deepest sympathies for the entire ND family and for Christy Layne. I was in Christy's first class as a teacher at Notre Dame and have very fond memories of her