James City County Emergency Communications received a 911 call from a residence located in the 2600 block of Little Creek Dam Road this morning at 9:18 a.m. The caller, later identified as 35-year-old Jenell Georgia Gallegos, was distraught and possibly suffering from a mental health episode.
As officers and Fire/EMS units were in route to the residence, it is believed that she shot her 12-year-old son, Noah W. Gallegos, and then herself with handgun. Officers forced entry into the residence upon arrival and located the woman lying in the floor. She was pronounced deceased at the scene. Officers and Fire/EMS personnel attempted life saving measures on the child who was transported by ambulance but was pronounced deceased on the way to the hospital.
It is reported that the child was a 6th grade middle school student in Williamsburg/James City County Schools. School personnel have been notified so that they are able to provide assistance to staff and students if needed.
This incident remains under investigation.
Media contact:
Deputy Chief Steve Rubino
757-592-6490; steve.rubino@jamescitycountyva.gov