7-Year-Old Shooting Victim 'Fighting for Her Life' After Oregon Rampage
Saylor Graham, a disabled student known as the school's "Sparrow," is in serious condition after being shot in the face during a mass shooting that left four dead.
A 7-year-old disabled girl is battling for her life after being shot in the face during a mass shooting at Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend, Oregon. Saylor Graham is in serious but stable condition following the tragedy that claimed the lives of three students and a teacher.
Saylor was adopted by Bend Senior High School as part of the nationwide Sparrow program during the 2024-25 academic year. The program involves high school students raising money for children with medical needs. According to a 2024 announcement, Saylor battles CASK, a gene mutation that impacts her physical and cognitive development, and dysphagia, a disorder that makes swallowing difficult. She was also nonverbal and frequently used a wheelchair, though she could walk on her own.
Matt Sampson, Sparrow USA's executive director, described Saylor as "the definition of light and joy" and "inspirational, very joyful, very courageous." He added, "She's a fighter, and we're praying that she fights through this."
Investigators believe 17-year-old Griffin J. John II stormed into the school's special education classroom and fired at least 15 shots. A teacher reportedly tackled the gunman, after which a civilian, identified as Kaylub Giamanco, fatally shot John. The motive for the attack is still under investigation. John's weapon had been legally purchased by his mother.
The victims who died in the shooting were identified as 5-year-old Rhoam Summer, an 8-year-old, an 11-year-old, and teacher Megan Lambert, 25.
Saylor and teacher Becky Drury, 54, are the only two survivors of the shooting, and both remain in serious condition. A community fundraiser is planned to support Saylor and her family. Giamanco, the civilian who stopped the shooter, expressed a desire to reach out to Saylor's family.