Alleged Perry Hall Shooter Charged As An Adult

Baltimore County police have charged 15-year-old Robert Wayne Gladden Jr. as an adult with first-degree attempted murder in connection with the shooting Monday on the first day of classes at Perry Hall High School in Baltimore County.

Police say Gladden used a double-barreled shotgun and had 21 rounds of ammunition, which he had stashed in the building. Baltimore County Police Chief James Johnson says the youth drank vodka before allegedly shooting and critically wounding a 17-year-old classmate. Teachers responded immediately, subduing Gladden.

The school was evacuated, and students were escorted to a nearby shopping center where they were collected by parents. The 17-year-old victim was rushed to a hospital in critical condition.

Police are still trying to understand Gladden's motives.

"We are aware of many reports that the suspect was a victim of bullying," says Johnson. "We cannot confirm those reports. Robert Gladden's conversations with investigators have not indicated that bullying was an issue in this case."

Johnson added that police are looking at social media for further clues. Shortly before the shooting, Gladden posted "First day of school, last day of my life" on his Facebook.