Bend, Oregon, October 17 (TNA) Three children and a teacher were killed in a shooting at Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend, Oregon, on Thursday, police said. The children were aged 5, 8 and 11. A seven-year-old child and a 54-year-old teacher were also shot and taken to St. Charles Medical Centre with critical injuries. Police said both victims were receiving treatment, while officials continued to assess the circumstances of the attack.
The suspected shooter, a 16-year-old Bend resident, forced his way into the school by firing through locked doors, according to Bend Police Chief Mike Krantz. Police said a community member who saw the teenager entering the school followed him inside and confronted him. The community member shot the suspect before responding officers arrived, authorities said.
The suspect was found dead inside the school shortly after the first emergency calls were made. Police have not immediately released further details about his motive or how he obtained the firearm. Authorities said the shooting occurred inside a special-needs classroom. Investigators were examining the scene and interviewing witnesses as the school community began dealing with the deaths and injuries.
The incident prompted a major police response in Bend, with officers securing the school and checking the premises. Families were notified, and support services were being arranged for students, teachers and relatives of those affected. The names of the victims were not immediately released. Police said the investigation remained active and further information would be provided as details were confirmed.