Innovative AI Technology Developed in Response to School Bus Incident in Prince George’s County

In a harrowing incident in Prince George’s County, Maryland, in May 2023, three masked individuals attempted to fire a handgun at a middle school student on a bus, fortunately without success due to the gun jamming. This event significantly impacted Vennard Wright, a cybersecurity expert and native of the county, prompting him to develop a technology aimed at firearm detection. Wright’s company, PerVista, leverages artificial intelligence to analyze surveillance footage for firearms, alerting law enforcement if a weapon is identified. Designed to enhance public safety in schools, malls, and other venues, the technology represents a proactive approach to mitigating gun violence. Wright, a University of Maryland graduate and former technology director for Hillary Clinton’s political campaigns, has previously been recognized for his contributions to technology and innovation in the county. Alongside his wife Janelle, Wright is dedicated to fostering an AI workforce in Prince George’s County, which has recently emerged as a hub for new businesses, particularly among African American entrepreneurs.