Oregon Teacher Breaks Silence After Deadly School Shooting

Cassidy Schutz, a certified learning specialist at Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend, Oregon, has broken her silence following the deadly school shooting on October 15, describing the tragedy as a profound loss she will carry with her always. Her statement comes more than two weeks after the attack that killed three students and a teacher.

"There are no words to describe the depth of sadness I am feeling following the events of October 15th. This is not a story. This is a horrific and heartbreaking tragedy, and it is our real lives," Schutz said in a statement released through Bend-La Pine Schools. "My thoughts are with those who were lost, their families, those who were hurt, and those who were there that day. My heart is with you. It all happened so fast, and I wish with everything in me that we had more time. The pain of this loss I will carry with me forever."

During the attack, Schutz reportedly threw her cellphone at the gunman and wrestled for control of his shotgun, according to Bend Police Chief Mike Krantz. Schutz also requested privacy as she continues to heal.

"There are no words for this unimaginable reality we are facing. My focus is on these families, our team, our school, and my own healing," she stated. "As I continue to navigate this, I ask that you please give me the time, space, and privacy I need to heal. I will not be making any additional public statements at this time."

The shooting began when a 16-year-old former student opened fire inside a classroom serving students with special needs. Teacher Megan Lambert, 25, and three students, identified as 5-year-old Rhoam Summer and two other children, aged 8 and 11, were killed. Another teacher, Becky Drury, and a 7-year-old girl sustained injuries but survived.

Drury had previously recounted her attempts to close her classroom door before being shot. She then pretended to be dead to avoid further harm. The gunman was ultimately killed by 36-year-old father Kaylub Giamanco.