A high school football player was killed in a drive-by shooting just days before prom night

RIPLEY, Tenn. (WMC/Gray News ) – Two teenagers were shot, one fatally, in a drive-by shooting in Tennessee.

Authorities say the drive-by shooting occurred Wednesday around 7:30 p.m. in the Northcrest subdivision in Ripley.

One 16-year-old boy was killed and another, also 16, was shot in the leg.

The deceased teenager was identified as Demarcus Barnes, a Ripley High School student and varsity football player.

The deceased teenager was identified as a Ripley High School student and football player… — The deceased teenager was identified as Ripley High School student and football player Demarcus Barnes.(WMC)

“Some things are unexpected and can’t be explained,” high school athletic department sent on social media.

A statue now stands in front of Ripley High School in Demarcus’ honor.

Lauderdale County Schools Superintendent Shawn Kimble released a statement after the shooting.

“Senseless tragedies like this are all too common in our region and we are deeply saddened by the loss of one of our students. We kindly ask for your continued prayers for our students and the entire community during this difficult time. Most importantly, we ask that you keep this student’s family in your thoughts and prayers as they deal with the tragic loss of a loved one,” Kimble said.

The police have not yet provided any information about the possible suspect.