On February 13, 2023, 15-year-old Preston Henry Ralston tragically passed away in Dalhart, Texas. Born on July 23, 2007, in Amarillo, Texas, Preston was a student at Dalhart High School. The incident occurred in the school's parking lot when a firearm was accidentally discharged inside a vehicle shortly after he was picked up from school.
In response to the situation, Dalhart Independent School District (DISD) implemented a lockdown at the request of law enforcement to ensure the safety of students and faculty. Once authorities confirmed there was no ongoing threat, the lockdown was lifted. Parents were notified of the incident, and the high school campus dismissed students early, while other campuses adhered to their regular schedules.
The Dalhart community, along with neighboring school districts and organizations, provided substantial support during this difficult time.
Experienced counselors, including the Region 16 Educational Service Center crisis team and the Dalhart Ministerial Alliance, were made available to assist students and faculty in coping with the tragedy.
Preston's family emphasized that the incident was a tragic accident and expressed their understanding toward those involved. They stated, "We want everyone to know this was an accident. We want those involved to know, that we know this was an accident."
In the wake of Preston's passing, the community organized memorials to honor his memory. On February 22, 2023, students and staff at Dalhart Intermediate School wore crimson and cream colors in his remembrance. Additionally, the high school encouraged wearing University of Oklahoma gear or crimson and cream on the same day to pay tribute to Preston.
Preston's obituary highlighted his surviving family members, including his parents, Sarah and Wes Ralston, and his siblings, Parker and Payton. Funeral services were held at St. James Anglican Church in Dalhart, followed by burial at Memorial Park Cemetery.
The Dalhart Police Department, in collaboration with the school district, conducted a thorough investigation into the incident. Specific details were withheld during the investigation, but authorities confirmed there was no active shooter situation, and the event was isolated.
The tragic loss of Preston Ralston deeply affected the Dalhart community, which came together to support one another and honor his memory through various tributes and memorials.
