A student opened fire on Wednesday at Evergreen High School in Colorado, United States, and injured two classmates before fatally shooting himself.
Gatekeepers News reports that Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office reported that the attack began around 12:30 p.m. at the campus, located roughly 30 miles west of Denver in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.
Jacki Kelley, spokesperson for the sheriff’s office, explained that gunfire erupted both inside and outside the school building. Officers arrived within five minutes and discovered the suspected shooter, who died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
More than 100 law enforcement officers from neighbouring jurisdictions rushed to the scene, Kelley added, noting that none discharged their weapons.
Two teenage victims were taken to St. Anthony Hospital. Brian Blackwood, the hospital’s trauma director, confirmed that one student was stabilised with non-life-threatening injuries by evening.
In a statement, Jefferson County officials described the incident as a devastating tragedy.
The statement reads, “Just before 1 p.m., shots were fired at Evergreen High School and three minors were transported to the hospital. One of those minors has been confirmed as the shooter and all three are in critical condition.”
“We are so grateful to our first responders and their immediate action to ensure the safety of our students.”
“As parents and caregivers continue to reunite with their children, our hearts are with the families of the victims and the students impacted by this tragic event.”
“No child should ever have to experience the fear of a violent threat at school. No parent should have to worry about the safety of their children while they are meant to be learning.”
