Tragic School Shooting in Bend, Oregon

A tragic shooting at Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend, Oregon, resulted in the deaths of three children and an adult. The suspected shooter also died, and authorities are investigating whether a bystander killed the suspect.

Federal law enforcement confirmed these fatalities. Bend police are closely examining the situation. Officers evacuated the school room by room to determine how the suspect was shot.

“We don’t have confirmation yet who shot the suspect. It may have been a bystander,” said Sheila Miller, communications manager at the Bend Police Department.

Medics from Bend Fire transported at least two individuals to St. Charles. The conditions of these individuals are not yet known. Silver Rail Elementary serves around 400 to 450 students and has over 40 staff members. The number of people present during the incident remains unclear.

Sheila Miller expressed the emotional impact of the event, highlighting its devastating effect on the community. The first call came at 12:59 p.m. about a shot fired into a car. Police arrived on scene by 1:02 p.m., and shortly thereafter, reports indicated the suspect was down.

Hundreds of law enforcement personnel throughout Central Oregon responded. The FBI’s Portland field office announced their support for local authorities, ensuring all necessary resources were available to them.

Families were directed to Journey Church at 61303 S. Highway 97 for reunification. Authorities urged the community to avoid the school vicinity.

Silver Rail Elementary, led by Principal Lybe Hawkins, serves students from kindergarten through fifth grade. The school had 459 students and approximately 30 teachers in the 2024-2025 school year.

Bend-La Pine Schools Superintendent Steven Cook expressed sorrow, stating the district’s heartbreak over the senseless tragedy. Cook emphasized the importance of caring for students and staff while supporting law enforcement efforts.

Bend Police expressed support and condolences to those affected. Oregon Governor Tina Kotek and Senator Jeff Merkley both expressed their concerns and gratitude to first responders, emphasizing the importance of addressing school safety.

Representative Janelle Bynum described the shooting as “every parent’s worst fear,” highlighting the importance of protecting children within educational settings.

This is a developing story with updates to follow.