Oregon School Shooter Linked to 'Nihilist Violent Extremist' Groups, Investigators Say

Federal and state investigators are examining the connections between Griffin John, the 16-year-old suspect in the Oregon elementary school shooting that killed three children and a teacher, and “nihilist violent extremist” groups. Sources familiar with the investigation told Oregon Public Broadcasting that John is being profiled as a socially disaffected teenager who was heavily active online.

Investigators are specifically looking into the group known as "764" for any potential ties to the massacre at Silver Rail Elementary School. The FBI describes this group as a loosely organized online network that promotes chaos, societal destruction, and the glorification of violence, mass murderers, and self-harm.

The attack, which occurred in Bend, Oregon, resulted in the deaths of three young students and a teacher. The suspect was later identified as Griffin John. Another individual, identified as the father of a student, reportedly intervened and shot the gunman, stopping the attack. Reports indicate this hero was the father of one of the students who was killed.

Details about John's background suggest a troubled family history. His family has been described as violent, with issues predating his birth. The motivations behind the shooting are still under investigation, with a focus on his online activities and potential extremist affiliations.