Virginia teacher police say was shot by 6-year-old student identified, described as dedicated and hard-working

Richmond, Va. — The Virginia teacher who authorities say was shot by a 6-year-old student is known as a hard-working educator who's devoted to her students and enthusiastic about the profession that runs in her family, according to fellow teachers and city officials.

John Eley III, a former member of the Newport News School Board, identified the first-grade teacher as Abby Zwerner, 25. Zwerner was shot Friday at Richneck Elementary School, authorities said.

Shortly after the shooting, police said Zwerner had life-threatening injuries, but was listed in stable condition, according to a statement issued Saturday by George Parker III, the Newport News Schools superintendent.