Three children and an adult lost their lives in a tragic shooting at Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend, Oregon. The suspected gunman was also killed, potentially by a bystander. Federal law enforcement confirmed the fatalities, and Bend police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooter’s death.
Law enforcement teams conducted a thorough room-by-room evacuation of the school as they worked to uncover the identity of the person who killed the suspect. Sheila Miller, communications manager for Bend Police, shared during a briefing that the shooter might have been shot by a bystander.
Bend Fire medics transported two individuals to St. Charles. Their conditions remain undisclosed at this time. The school accomodates around 400 to 450 students with over 40 staff members employed there. It remains uncertain how many people were present during the event.
“This is the kind of thing we never want to see happen in Bend. It’s devastating,”
Miller expressed this emotional sentiment during the briefing, highlighting the impact on the community.
The initial distress call came in at around 12:59 p.m., with a report of a shot fired into a car. Authorities received an alert by 1 p.m., arriving at the scene by 1:02 p.m. Within moments of their arrival, they were informed that the suspect was down. Numerous 911 calls reported an active shooter during the police response.
Central Oregon law enforcement agencies, supported by the FBI’s Portland office, promptly responded. The FBI emphasized their commitment to provide necessary resources to assist with the ongoing investigation. Families were directed to Journey Church for reunification while authorities advised the public to stay clear of the school area.
Silver Rail Elementary, part of the Bend-La Pine school district, accommodates kindergarten through fifth grade, led by Principal Lybe Hawkins. During the 2024-2025 school year, the school had 459 students and about 30 teaching staff.
Bend-La Pine Schools Superintendent Steven Cook expressed the district’s profound grief over what he termed a “senseless tragedy.” He pledged focus on student and staff care while aiding law enforcement efforts.
Bend police echoed these sentiments, extending thoughts to those affected by the tragedy. Governor Tina Kotek and Senator Jeff Merkley also expressed their condolences and vowed close monitoring of the situation. They commended the swift response of first responders.
Representative Janelle Bynum, whose district encompasses Bend, reflected on the tragic nature of such violent acts occurring in schools. She highlighted the need for safer environments for children.
This story continues to unfold, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.