The principal of the Nashville school that was the location of a tragic shooting this week reportedly confronted the shooter to save the lives of those around her.
The shooting took place on March 27 at the Covenant School in Nashville, tragically claiming the lives of six people, three of which were nine years old.
The attack was carried out by Audrey Hale, a 28-year-old former student at the school who police believe had "some resentment for having to go to that school," per CBS News.
One of the victims has been identified as the school's principal, 60-year-old Dr. Katherine Koonce who was found deceased in a corridor.
The location of her body led Nashville Police Chief John Drake to believe that she tragically lost her life while confronting Hale.
A former member of Nashville city council and FBI agent, Russ Pulley, believed that Dr. Koonce lost her life while attempting to save the lives of the children at the school.
Taking to Facebook, Pulley wrote: "Tough day here in Nashville today. My thoughts and prayers are with the families who lost loved ones and the entire Covenant School community as they deal with this terrible tragedy."
Adding that he is thankful for the efforts of those who attended the scene, Pulley explained how Dr. Koonce acted heroically in the face of danger.
"The headmaster, Dr. Koonce, upon hearing the first shots, ran toward the danger. She also made sure the school was prepared with active shooter training and protocols. Those actions saved countless lives.
"Our police officers arrived on the scene, entered the school with an active shooter, located and neutralized the shooter all within 14 minutes of the initial call. As we mourn the loss of lives and stand with our Covenant community, we also thank the school staff and first responders for the lives they saved."
As reported by BBC News, one parent who has two children at the school described Dr. Koonce as "a saint". "She did so much for those kids," the parent said. "And now gave her life protecting them."
The mother added: "She knew every single student by name [...] She did everything to help them when families couldn't afford things, it didn't matter. She found ways for them to stay."
Dean Russ Crowe, a friend of Dr. Koonce, took to Facebook where he penned: "Today is such a tragedy. I know [Katherine's] entrance into heaven was abundant. But here we on earth we are devastated. Please pray for her husband and family. And for all the families who thought today was just another Monday and counting down to Spring Break. It's just horrible."
The other victims of the shooting have been identified as Evelyn Dieckhaus, Hallie Scruggs, and William Kinney, all aged nine, Cynthia Peak, aged 61, and Mike Hill, aged 61.
Our thoughts remain with all of those affected by this tragedy.