In Bend, Oregon, a tragic shooting unfolded at Silver Rail Elementary School on Thursday, resulting in the deaths of three children and one adult. The suspected shooter also died, possibly by the action of a bystander.
Authorities, including federal law enforcement, have confirmed the fatalities. Bend police officials are investigating the possibility that a bystander might have intervened and killed the shooter within the school premises. Police officers conducted a thorough search of the school, going room by room to ensure all students and staff were evacuated safely.
“We don’t have confirmation yet who shot the suspect. It may have been a bystander,” Sheila Miller, communications manager for Bend Police Department, stated during a news briefing.
Emergency medical teams transported at least two individuals to St. Charles Hospital, though their current conditions remain unknown. Silver Rail Elementary accommodates approximately 400 to 450 students and employs over 40 staff members. At the time of the incident, it was unclear how many were present at the school.
The incident shocked the local community. Sheila Miller expressed the emotional impact, saying, “This is the kind of thing we never want to see happen in Bend. It’s devastating.”
The first emergency call reporting a shot fired into a car was received at around 12:59 p.m. Officers were alerted at 1 p.m. and arrived at the school by approximately 1:02 p.m., where they quickly learned from radio communications that the suspect was down. During the response, multiple 911 calls reported an active shooter at the school.
Law enforcement from across Central Oregon, including the FBI’s Portland field office, responded to the scene to assist local authorities with the investigation. The FBI pledged support, stating, “We will make every resource they need available.”
Authorities directed families to Journey Church at 61303 S. Highway 97 for reunification, urging the public to keep away from the school area. Silver Rail Elementary serves grades kindergarten through fifth in the Bend-La Pine school district and is led by Principal Lybe Hawkins. School data from the 2024-2025 academic year noted the enrollment of 459 students with about 30 teaching staff.
Bend-La Pine Schools Superintendent Steven Cook expressed shock and sympathy for those affected, saying, “We extend our deepest sympathy to the families and to everyone affected by this violence. No words can adequately express the grief our community is experiencing. Our immediate priorities are caring for our students and staff and assisting law enforcement and emergency responders.”
Bend police also conveyed their support, stating, “We are thinking of the families and friends of Silver Rail Elementary and everyone in Bend and beyond who are affected by this terrible tragedy.”
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek, closely monitoring the situation, expressed gratitude to first responders, stating, “I am grateful to the first responders who are on the scene.” Senator Jeff Merkley and Representative Janelle Bynum voiced similar concerns and support for the affected community.