A 16-year-old gunman opened fire at Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend, Oregon, on Thursday, resulting in the deaths of three children and a teacher. The victims were aged five, eight, and eleven, and their names have not been released as their families have been notified. The shooter was found dead at the scene after being shot by an armed bystander. Two additional victims, a seven-year-old and a 54-year-old, were hospitalized and remain in critical condition.
Police responded to the school at 1:02 PM local time following multiple reports of gunfire. One caller reported that an individual armed with a long gun was firing at their car. Authorities stated that the shooter gained entry to the school by shooting at locked doors, but did not disclose the type of firearm used.
The shooter was a resident of Bend, but his name has not been released. Police have not yet determined a motive for the shooting and are investigating whether he had any connections to the school. The incident has deeply affected the community of Bend, which has a population of approximately 100,000 and is located about 170 miles southeast of Portland. In response to the tragedy, the school district has announced the closure of all schools on Friday.
Officials have commended the quick response of law enforcement and the community member who intervened. Oregon Governor Tina Kotek referred to the bystander's actions as heroic and acknowledged the emotional toll it may carry. The FBI is assisting local authorities in the investigation, as stated by the agency's director, Kash Patel.