A Metairie, Louisiana, mother has filed a wrongful-death lawsuit against Archbishop Rummel High School and the Archdiocese of New Orleans following the tragic suicide of her 17-year-old son, Devon Shelton. Shelton died just hours after being expelled from the school, sparking the lawsuit that accuses school officials and the archdiocese of negligence.
Details of the Wrongful-Death Lawsuit
The lawsuit, filed by Sara Brannon in state court on March 17, 2026, claims that the school and archdiocese failed to properly handle Shelton’s expulsion and ignored policies meant to protect students facing emotional or mental health struggles. Brannon is seeking damages for mental anguish, physical pain, and suffering as a result of the school’s actions.
What Happened Leading Up to the Expulsion?
According to the lawsuit, Shelton was involved in a physical altercation described as a shoving match with a student who had been bullying him. The incident, along with allegations that Shelton smelled of alcohol at band practice, led to his expulsion from the school.
The lawsuit alleges that the principal told the family that Shelton was not showing the improvement the school wanted to see, and suggested that he find another school. The lawsuit claims that, shortly after this interaction, Shelton tragically took his own life.
Failure to Follow School Policies
Brannon’s complaint emphasizes that Rummel High School did not follow the policies outlined in its student handbook, especially those regarding disciplinary procedures, bullying, and expulsions.
The handbook includes step-by-step guidelines that should have been followed in such situations. The lawsuit claims that the school failed to provide alternative schooling or any type of support after Shelton’s expulsion, leaving him with little recourse.
Archdiocese Already Under Legal Pressure
This lawsuit comes during a difficult time for the Archdiocese of New Orleans, which is dealing with a years-long bankruptcy tied to clergy abuse claims. The archdiocese sought bankruptcy protection in 2020 and has been negotiating settlements with claimants in recent months. These ongoing legal troubles only add to the scrutiny the archdiocese now faces following Shelton’s death.
What’s Next in Court?
Sara Brannon is represented by civil attorneys, including Richard Trahant. The lawsuit seeks damages based on negligence and failure to adhere to the school’s own policies. A spokesperson for the Archdiocese of New Orleans has declined to comment on the case, citing pending litigation, but stated that the church holds Shelton’s family in their prayers.
The case will proceed through the state court system, where both sides are expected to exchange evidence and possibly negotiate a settlement in the coming months.
