PWCS Superintendent Addresses Community on Deaths of 4 Students

Photo by Ashleigh Henegar

Superintendent Dr. Steven Walts emailed a letter to the parents of Prince William County Schools' children, regarding the deaths of four PWCS students this week.

“We are asking for the help of all PWCS parents and guardians, as our school community copes with the tragic and unexpected deaths of four Prince William County High school students, at three schools, over the past few days,” Walts began his letter.

Students who died attended Brentsville, Osbourn Park and Gar-field high schools.

Brentsville student Christopher James Owens, 15, of Bristow, went missing along with his ATV Saturday night. Police investigated and early Monday evening located Owens body. They have not released cause of death, nor where he was located.

Woodbridge teens Indya Davis, 17, of Osbourn Park, and Lyle Ferringer, 17, of Gar-field High School, were found dead in a car in Dale City, Saturday.

“The results of the autopsy on both Indya Davis and Lyle Ferringer showed that their cause of death was related to stab wounds,” said Information Officer, Sergeant Jonathan Perok. “The manner of death of Indya Davis has been ruled a suicide while the manner of death concerning Lyle Ferringer is still pending further investigation and toxicology results.”

David Cobb, a junior who attended Osbourn Park High School, also died over the weekend.

Walts said that while police have not yet released full details on the three separate incidents, he wanted to reach out to the school community. He asked parents, to “speak with your children.”

“If you student knew any of those who died, let them know that you and adults at their school are here to help them cope with their feelings. Whether they lost friends or not, be sure they know that they have your love and support, and that help is available for anyone who could possibly be hurting enough to consider harming themselves.”

School counselors and medical professionals will be available for the emotional health of students affected. Prince William County Schools also shared tips on suicide prevention.