A shooting incident at Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend, Oregon, on Thursday has resulted in the deaths of four individuals, including three young children. A 16-year-old gunman opened fire within the school premises, targeting students and staff before he was shot by a community member who intervened.
Authorities confirm that the three deceased children were aged 5, 8, and 11. Additionally, a 54-year-old teacher and a 7-year-old student were injured and remain in critical condition at a local hospital. The conflict began around 1 p.m. when 911 calls reported shots fired, with one caller observing the shooter armed with a long gun.
The suspected shooter forced entry into the building by firing at locked doors, police report. Officers responded within minutes of the initial call and discovered the attacker deceased inside the school shortly thereafter. Investigators revealed that the firearm used in the attack was a pump-action shotgun, legally purchased by the shooter’s mother.
Bend Police Chief Mike Krantz has stated that the investigation will further explore the shooter’s background and any potential connections to the school. Meanwhile, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek expressed her condolences during a news conference, commending the courageous actions of the community member who intervened. She acknowledged the emotional burden that accompanies such a heroic act and reiterated support for the affected community.
The school, which serves grades K-5, enrolled 459 students as of the last academic year, according to the Oregon Department of Education. Efforts are currently underway to reunite students with their families following the tragic event.
