NEWPORT NEWS — The trial of a lawsuit against a former assistant principal at Richneck Elementary School got underway Monday , with seven jurors and two alternates selected to hear the case.

Abby Zwerner, a former first grade teacher at the school, was shot by a 6-year-old student on Jan. 6, 2023.

Zwerner, now 28, is suing former assistant principal Ebony Parker, asserting that she failed to heed several clear warnings that the boy had a gun in school that day. Her lawsuit is asking for $40 million in damages for the emotional and physical toll from the shooting. Her attorneys made clear Monday that they are planning to ask for that number.

The trial at Newport News Circuit Court will be broadcast in its entirety by Court TV. The coverage will begin with opening statements T

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