Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – A tragic incident unfolded in Philadelphia’s Grays Ferry neighborhood as a special education compliance monitor and beloved teacher at Olney High School lost her life in what authorities suspect to be a murder-suicide.
Authorities were called to an apartment on South 30th Street where they discovered Ondria Glaze, 36, with a fatal gunshot wound to her face. Rick Harper, 42, was also found in the apartment with a self-inflicted gunshot wound to his head, leading police to believe he was responsible for Glaze’s death before taking his own life.
The devastating news sent shockwaves through the community, with Olney High School Principal Michael Roth expressing deep sorrow in a letter to parents. Roth described Glaze as a “long-time beloved Olney teacher” who embodied the spirit of “Olney Love” in her interactions with students and staff.
Glaze’s impact was so profound that the school decided to establish a scholarship in her honor, called “The Ondria Glaze, Olney Love Scholarship.” This scholarship will be awarded annually to a graduating student who exemplifies the same level of compassion and dedication that Glaze showed throughout her time at Olney High School.
As the school community mourns the loss of a cherished member, they are reminded of the importance of addressing domestic violence. Resources such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline are being shared in hopes of preventing similar tragedies in the future.
The tragic loss of Ondria Glaze serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the impact that domestic violence can have on individuals and communities. Her memory will live on through the scholarship established in her name, ensuring that her legacy of love and compassion continues to inspire future generations of students at Olney High School.