HORACE, N.D. — The Horace community was left shaken after a shooting in the parking lot of Heritage Middle School led to a lockdown of three local schools Monday morning. The incident, which occurred around 9:46 a.m., prompted a rapid response from law enforcement and raised concerns among parents, students, and residents across the area.
According to West Fargo Police, officers were dispatched to the school after receiving reports of gunfire. A School Resource Officer already on-site quickly secured the building while additional officers from multiple agencies arrived to assist and ensure the safety of those inside. As a precaution, Heritage Middle School, Horace Elementary, and Horace High School were all placed on lockdown.
Authorities confirmed that one adult male sustained a non-life-threatening gunshot wound to the hand during the incident. No students, teachers, or school staff were injured. Officials stated that instruction continued inside the buildings while law enforcement worked to secure the scene.
Police identified the suspect as 40-year-old Garmonyou Dougar Wiles of Fargo, who has since been taken into custody. He faces multiple felony charges, including aggravated assault, reckless endangerment, and terrorizing. Investigators say the suspect and the victim were acquaintances through work, both involved in a construction project at the school.
The situation has left the Horace community unsettled, though many expressed relief that the injuries were not more severe and that no children were harmed. Authorities continue to process evidence and review the circumstances that led to the shooting.
