Teen Arrested After 17-Year-Old Student Fatally Shot in Johnstown Residence Incident
Authorities in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, have provided further details about the tragic shooting of 17-year-old Syrina Raneri, a student at Greater Johnstown High School, which occurred late Sunday night. The incident took place at a residence on Sheridan Street and has resulted in the arrest of another teenager.
Police responded to reports of a shooting just before midnight and found Raneri in the basement with gunshot wounds to her upper chest and right arm. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Witness statements and police investigations have led to criminal charges against 17-year-old Kaden Woodring, who now faces charges of criminal homicide and aggravated assault.
According to the affidavit, Woodring allegedly pointed a stolen hunting-style rifle at Raneri and pulled the trigger, reportedly saying, “You know I’m playin’?” before firing the weapon. The rifle had been brought to Woodring weeks earlier by another juvenile. Witnesses reported that the weapon was removed from the residence after the shooting, and authorities are still searching for the firearm and shell casings.
Woodring reportedly informed a family member of the shooting, briefly called 911, and fled the scene before being apprehended by law enforcement. He is currently held at Cambria County Prison without bail as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the shooting and the origins of the stolen weapon.
The sudden loss of Raneri has deeply affected the Greater Johnstown High School community, where she was known and loved. Grief counselors are being made available to help students and staff cope with the devastating news. The school released a statement expressing condolences to the Raneri family and affirming its commitment to supporting the grieving community.
Authorities urge anyone with additional information to come forward as they work to piece together the events leading to this tragedy. An autopsy scheduled for Tuesday will confirm the exact cause of Raneri’s death. This heartbreaking incident has left the community in shock and serves as a somber reminder of the need for vigilance regarding firearm safety and accountability.
