Bend school shooting: Teen suspect used mother’s shotgun in rampage

The tragedy in Bend

Real talk, the community of Bend, Oregon is reeling after an absolute nightmare unfolded at Silver Rail Elementary on Thursday. A 16-year-old boy, whose identity hasn't been released, showed up to the school just before 1 p.m. packing a pump-action shotgun.

Before he even made it inside, he ran into a guy driving a red Toyota Tacoma in the parking lot. The teen opened fire on the truck, shattering the back window and leaving at least six bullet holes in the vehicle. The driver was able to call 911, reporting that he’d been shot at by someone with a long gun.

Entering the school

After firing on the truck, the teen allegedly tossed his weapon over a fence before hopping over himself, then grabbing the gun again. He proceeded to shoot at the locks to break into the building, which houses kids from kindergarten to fifth grade.

Cops arrived within three minutes of the first 911 call, but it was already too late for four people—three students, aged 5, 8, and 11, and a teacher—who were tragically killed. Another 7-year-old child and a 54-year-old teacher remain in critical condition.

A hero steps in

Bend Police Chief Mike Krantz confirmed that the shooter was eventually stopped after a community member saw him enter the school, followed him inside, and engaged him, ending the rampage.

It turns out the shotgun used was purchased by the teen’s mom. While Oregon law allows minors to possess non-handgun weapons with parental consent, it's still unclear if that was the case here. The Bend La Pine school district has a strict policy banning firearms on its property, even for those with concealed carry permits.

Why it matters

This is devastating for a town known for being a safe place to raise families. Local officials like Oregon Governor Tina Kotek are already calling for community support, while Representative Janelle Bynum noted the horror of having a child involved in taking the lives of other kids. It’s giving a total feeling of heartbreak, and the investigation is expected to be a long, painful process for everyone involved.