Seattle Garfield High Students Walk Out Demanding Safer Schools One Year After Fatal Shooting

One year after 17-year-old Amarr Murphy-Paine was fatally shot while trying to break up a fight at Garfield High School, students, parents, and community members continue to demand safer school environments and justice, as no arrests have been made in the case. The Seattle School District has increased security measures, including doubling safety staff and upgrading school entrances, and is considering reintroducing a police officer on campus despite community concerns about policing students. Murphy-Paine's family has established the Amarr's Heart Foundation to support the community, while students and families remember other recent victims of gun violence in the area, highlighting a broader regional problem. Despite initial promises for change, some community leaders and parents express frustration that students feel less safe than ever, with declining school enrollment reflecting ongoing safety worries. The school board and district officials continue discussions on how best to protect students, balancing added security with concerns over student-police relations. The tragedy remains an active investigation with authorities seeking witnesses to the shooting and related events.