LITTLE ROCK, AR – The tragic and untimely death of 15-year-old John Staats, a freshman at Catholic High School for Boys, has left his family, classmates, and the Little Rock community devastated. Staats was found fatally shot inside a vehicle on Tuesday, January 30, in the 8000 block of Stanton Road, according to the Little Rock Police Department.

Authorities have not yet released details regarding a suspect or motive in the case, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Heartfelt Statement from John’s Parents

John’s parents, Shauna and Ray Staats, released an emotional statement describing their son as a bright, kindhearted young man with a passion for sports, music, and faith.

“John was a very good and sweet boy. He was very smart, fun, and liked to make people laugh. He was a good student and had a passion for football and sports. John played the violin with the Arkansas Symphony Youth Ensemble for years. He also played piano and was part of the Little Rock Dolphin swim team.”

John’s family also emphasized his deep-rooted faith, sharing that he was baptized in July 2019 at Pleasant Valley Church of Christ and had a strong, inquisitive nature when it came to religion.

“John believed in God. He was gifted with natural and deep thoughts on religion. John is resting in heaven, united with his dear grandfather, and will be deeply missed by his family, neighbors, friends, and classmates.”

Catholic High School Responds to Tragic Loss

In response to the heartbreaking news, Catholic High School for Boys has offered support to grieving students and faculty members.

Head of School Steve Straessle released a statement on Wednesday, reflecting on John’s positive impact on the school community and the outpouring of grief from students.

“John was a freshman at Catholic High. He was a good kid, a good student, an athlete, and a musician. Yesterday, the school held a prayer service attended by the entire student body. The students’ reverence spoke to the respect for the moment and care for John and his family. Catholic High’s counselors have been available and are actively identifying those students most in need. In tragedy, the boys find solace in one another and in their faith. We are helping families navigate this troubling time with their sons.”

The school is working closely with grief counselors to provide students with emotional support and to encourage open conversations about loss and healing.

Community Mourns as Investigation Continues

As the investigation into John Staats’ death unfolds, the Little Rock community is struggling to comprehend the loss of such a young and promising life.

Authorities have not yet released suspect information, and no arrests have been made in connection to the shooting.

Residents of the area near Stanton Road expressed their shock and sadness over the tragic event, with some calling for increased police presence and measures to curb gun violence among the city’s youth.

“This is heartbreaking. A child with his whole future ahead of him is gone because of senseless violence,” said Susan Wilkins, a nearby resident. “We need to come together as a community to stop these tragedies from happening.”

Remembering John Staats

Friends and classmates have taken to social media to share memories of John, describing him as a joyful, compassionate young man who loved to make people laugh.

“John was the kind of person who could brighten anyone’s day. He was always cracking jokes and making people feel included,” said one of his classmates.

A candlelight vigil is being planned by Catholic High School and John’s church, Pleasant Valley Church of Christ, to honor his life and legacy.

A Call for Justice

John Staats’ family is now pleading for anyone with information about the shooting to come forward and help police bring justice to their son.

“If you know something, please speak up. No family should have to go through this pain,” said Shauna Staats.

The Little Rock Police Department is urging anyone with information to contact (501) 371-4636 or submit an anonymous tip through Crimestoppers.

As the city mourns, one thing remains clear—John Staats was a young man with immense potential, taken far too soon by senseless violence. His memory will live on through his family, friends, school, and community, who will continue to seek justice in his name.