CALIFORNIA—On Monday, March 14, , students and staff of Kraemer Middle School in Placentia, were sent home early after Assistant Principal Moises Plascencia, 40, shot and killed himself on the school campus at approximately 9 a.m.
The Placentia Police Department responded to the call indicating that no one was present in the staff room when Plascencia fatally shot himself.
Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Jim Elsasser shared a message on the Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District website informing the public of the “unfathomable tragedy.”
“Moises was so much more than a respected assistant principal. He was a father, husband, brother, and friend to so many in our school district community. His passing, and the manner in which it occurred, has left us devastated, confused, and heartbroken; however, we ask that you please respect his family’s privacy during this incredibly difficult time.”
Placentia is located in northern Orange County in the southeastern part of the state of California.
Dr. Elsasser stated that mental health professionals would be on-hand for any faculty or students needing help coping with the loss.
“While we may never make sense of or understand why this occurred, we do know that turning to each other during this time for support is essential. Our team of highly qualified mental health professionals will be on campus to support Kraemer but also available to support our students, staff, and families affected by this incident across the district. Please contact your school’s front office to access these supports,” added Elsasser.
According to reports, Plascencia was described as a man who loved to spend time with his wife and family, partake in school activities, and driving his beloved Impala.
Classes resumed on Tuesday, March 15, with counselors on-site for students in need of them.
