Teen Gunman Kills Three Children and Teacher in Oregon Elementary School Shooting
A 16-year-old suspect, armed with a shotgun purchased by his mother, opened fire at Silver Rail Elementary School before being killed by a community member.
A 16-year-old gunman killed three children and a teacher at Silver Rail Elementary School in Oregon on Thursday before being fatally shot by a community member, authorities said. The shooting occurred around 12:59 p.m. when the teenager, armed with a pump-action shotgun, began firing.
Bend Police Chief Mike Krantz confirmed that officers responding to the scene encountered the suspect and that five individuals, including the shooter, had succumbed to their injuries. The victims identified were three children, aged five, eight, and eleven, and a teacher. The identities of the victims have not yet been released.
The incident began outside the school when a man in a red Toyota Tacoma pickup truck witnessed the teenager approaching the building with a long gun. The civilian confronted the gunman, who then fired multiple shots at the man and his truck, shattering a rear window and leaving six bullet holes.
The assailant then allegedly discarded his shotgun over the school fence and scaled it to enter the building, prompting the driver to call Deschutes County dispatchers. Police arrived at the scene within minutes. Shortly after, the shooter was pursued and engaged by an unidentified community member, who was praised by Oregon Governor Tina Kotek for their actions.
Paramedics treated injured individuals at the scene. A seven-year-old and a 54-year-old teacher were transported to the hospital, with their conditions not immediately clear.
Bend-La Pine Schools Superintendent Steven Cook expressed shock and heartbreak over the incident, calling it a "senseless tragedy." He thanked emergency responders and school staff for their efforts to protect students.
Later on Thursday, community members gathered at Drake Park for a candlelight vigil to mourn the victims. Memorials included chalk writings with prayers and messages. Mayor Melanie Kebler described the event as a dark day for the city and urged community support for one another. A sentiment for gun control was also noted among social media and at the vigil.
The motive for the shooting remains unclear, and authorities have not confirmed whether the suspect knew anyone at the school or had previously attended it.