Timothy George Simpkins: Timberview High School shooting suspect released from jail

An 18-year-old student, Timothy George Simpkins, accused of a shooting at Timberview High School in Arlington, Texas was released from jail Thursday after posting bond.

Police accuse Timothy George Simpkins of opening fire in a classroom Wednesday at Timberview High School in Arlington.

Two people were shot and two others suffered unspecified injuries. He was jailed on three counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. They recovered the .45 caliber gun.

Police have said the shooting happened after a fight, but Simpkins’ family said he had been bullied and robbed twice at school.

“The decision he made, taking the gun, we’re not justifying that,” said family spokeswoman Carol Harrison Lafayette, who spoke to reporters outside the Simpkins’ home Wednesday night while standing with other relatives. “That was not right. But he was trying to protect himself.”

Police said a 15-year-old student who was shot remained in critical condition while a 25-year-old teacher who was shot was in good condition Thursday.

A pregnant teacher was also hurt in a fall but was treated at the scene and not hospitalized, police said.

Timothy Simpkins was released after paying a $75,000 bond. As part of his bond conditions, His is on house arrest on a GPS monitor, cannot possess a firearm, and cannot have contact with any of the victims.

If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in prison.