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Allen County Students Return to Class Following Student's Murder

Tuesday will be the first day back at school for Allen County students following the murder of a seven-year-old classmate over the weekend and school administrators are trying to put concerned parents at ease.

A few parents have said they will not send their children back to school out of fear for their safety.  Gabriella Doolin, a 2nd grader, was found dead in a creek Saturday night behind Allen County-Scottsville High School. 

Her killer has not been found, but Allen County Schools Superintendent Randall Jackson promises a safe and nurturing environment as students return to class.

"I think it will be good for children to get back to the learning environment, but also to be with their friends and teachers as they have questions about the horrible tragedy," Jackson told WKU Public Radio. 

Aside from school resource officers who regularly patrol the schools, the sheriff’s office will provide additional manpower.  Grief counselors from Allen County and neighboring districts will be there to meet the emotional needs of students.

Lisa is a Scottsville native and WKU alum. She has worked in radio as a news reporter and anchor for 18 years. Prior to joining WKU Public Radio, she most recently worked at WHAS in Louisville and WLAC in Nashville. She has received numerous awards from the Associated Press, including Best Reporter in Kentucky. Many of her stories have been heard on NPR.