One day after a 14-year-old female student was fatally stabbed at Roy J. Smith Middle School, has been identified as Serenity Baker.
Baker was described as “a bright, loving, and compassionate young soul with a promising future ahead of her. She brought joy to everyone around her, and her kindness touched so many lives.”
The incident, which occurred on Monday, March 10, 2025, has left students, staff, and families grappling with grief. The stabbing took place around 11:25 a.m. during an altercation between two 14-year-old female students at the school, located at 6000 Brushy Creek Drive.
According to Killeen Independent School District (KISD) Chief of Police Erik Hydorn, the suspect, also a 14-year-old female student, allegedly stabbed the victim during a dispute.
Emergency Medical Services responded within seven minutes, transporting the injured girl to Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center, where she succumbed to her injuries shortly after noon.
KISD Police apprehended the suspect near the campus, and remains in custody.
The Killeen Police Department, in collaboration with KISD Police, is leading the ongoing homicide investigation.
In response to the tragedy, KISD Superintendent Dr. Jo Ann Fey announced that Roy J. Smith Middle School would remain closed until after spring break, with classes resuming on Monday, March 24, 2025.
Fey explained that this decision aims to provide the school community with “the space and support needed to grieve and begin to recover.” An emergency meeting of the KISD Board of Trustees was held at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, March 11, but specific outcomes from the meeting have not yet been made public.
Following the incident, the school was placed on lockdown, and students were transported to Manna Church at 1826 Stagecoach Road for reunification with their parents or guardians. The process required photo identification and reunification cards to ensure safety, which KISD emphasized as necessary despite the emotional strain on waiting families.
“We understand that this may be a stressful time, and we appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to reunite families safely,” the district stated.
Counseling and support services are being prioritized in the wake of the stabbing. KISD has arranged for counselors to be available at the Jackson Professional Learning Center (902 Rev. R A Abercrombie Drive) from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. throughout the week for any student or staff member needing immediate assistance.
Additional support will be provided when students return after spring break.
The incident has sparked concern among parents, with some, like Renee Calzado, expressing to local media that they are now considering homeschooling options.
“My main concern was my children and the family members I have that work at the school,” Calzado told KWTX, reflecting the broader unease within the community.
As the investigation progresses, KISD has promised to inform families about operational updates, including when students can retrieve belongings left at the school. For now, the focus remains on healing.
“Our hearts are heavy as we navigate this difficult time together,” Fey said. “It is times like this that our community’s strength and support for one another are what will guide us forward.”
This remains a developing story; further updates will be provided as new information emerges from the ongoing investigation.