Stoughton, Massachusetts - Tragedy struck the Stoughton Public Schools community as two of its students became victims of a double shooting in Boston's Mattapan neighborhood on Friday. The incident resulted in the death of a rising senior, identified as Christian Cousins, while another student, whose identity remains undisclosed, sustained non-life-threatening injuries.

In a solemn statement issued by the school department, the news of Christian Cousins' untimely demise was shared, leaving the Stoughton High community deeply saddened. The statement conveyed that Cousins, a member of the SHS class of 2025, was fatally shot on July 5th while in Mattapan with another SHS student. The second student, while also shot, is expected to recover from the injuries inflicted.

"We extend our heartfelt sympathies to Christian's family, friends, and teachers, as well as the entire Stoughton High community. At a time like this, it is never easy to cope with the loss of a student, particularly under these tragic circumstances," expressed the school department, offering thoughts and prayers to those affected.

The Mattapan shooting, which claimed Cousins' life, was one of four deadly incidents that occurred in Boston on Friday. In addition to the two fatalities, five other individuals were wounded in the string of shootings reported in Roxbury, Dorchester, and Jamaica Plain. As of yet, no arrests have been made in connection with any of the incidents.

During a news conference held on Friday afternoon, Boston Police Superintendent Felipe Colon confirmed that the Mattapan shooting was not a random act of violence. Moreover, he emphasized the city's ongoing efforts to combat such incidents, stating that targeted areas were already under heightened police surveillance during the July 4th holiday weekend.

Mayor Wu also expressed her heartfelt condolences, acknowledging the challenges the city still faces in reducing violence levels. "My heart is with those who are recovering and those who are grieving today," said Mayor Wu. While the city has made significant progress in terms of reducing violence, this weekend, with a higher number of people out and about, demands increased caution and vigilance.

In response to the tragic event, the Stoughton Public Schools Crisis Team will convene to provide necessary support and resources to the school community. Additional information regarding available student supports will be shared after the meeting.

As this is a developing story, further updates can be expected as more information becomes available. The Stoughton Public Schools community, alongside the greater Boston area, remains united in mourning the loss of a promising young student and hoping for a swift resolution to the ongoing investigations.