Sky News interrupted its programming on Friday to report on a school shooting in Oregon that left three children and a teacher dead.
Journalist Anna Jones delivered the update, stating: "Authorities say the shooter entered Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend by firing through locked doors, armed with a long gun." She added that the children killed were aged five, eight, and 11, and that the suspect, a 16-year-old local resident, was shot dead at the scene by a community member who pursued them into the school.
Additional details from the scene
KTVZ reporter Spencer Sacks, speaking to Sky News, provided further information: "We are still hearing that there are two individuals - a teacher and a child - who are still in the hospital."
The shooting occurred on Thursday, 15 October. School superintendent Dr Steve Cook addressed the tragedy at a press conference, saying: "Today, an unthinkable tragedy happened at Silver Rail Elementary School." He continued: "No community should have to do what we're doing right now. I don't have any words for what this community is feeling right now; I don't think anyone does. We are heartbroken; we are horrified. This is the kind of thing you hear about in other places and pray that it never happens here, and it has happened here. To the families that have had loss tonight, we are with you, and we will stay with you." Cook concluded: "Hold your children, hold your loved ones tight tonight."
Investigation and community response
FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed on X that an investigation is underway: "@FBIPortland is on the scene and assisting our local partners in the investigation regarding an earlier shooting at a local school. We will make every resource they need available."
A candlelight vigil was held at Drake Park on Thursday evening, drawing close to 1,000 people. Melanie Kebler, the Mayor of Bend, delivered a speech at the service.
Viewers reacted with shock to the news. One social media user wrote, "Horrendous news," while another commented, "Another day, another tragedy at an American school. My thoughts to the families concerned."
