Three men have been charged with 38 counts of aggravated battery in the aftermath of a Wednesday morning incident outside Marion Junior High where multiple students were allegedly struck with projectiles fired from an Orbeez or airsoft-type weapon.
Marion Police say 38 people were struck in all, including 37 at the school, by shots fired from a passing car. No serious injuries were reported.
The three were taken into custody after a car matching the description of the one involved in the shooting was found parked at the gas pumps of a Casey’s Store in Marion. Police reportedly found several ‘Orbeez pellets’ lying on the seats and floorboards.
The occupants, 18-year-old Eadin Stewart of Johnston City, 23-year-old Ryan Nance of Carterville, and 18-year-old Travis Rule of Energy, were all taken to the Williamson County Jail on the aggravated battery charges.
Marion Police believe the shooting may have been tied to a Tik Tok challenge and would not be tolerated.
