Two people were killed and a child was injured in a shooting at the Chico branch of the Butte County library on Monday evening, authorities said. The suspect, identified as Bradley Scott Sayer of Chico, was arrested by police.
Incident Details
The Chico police department reported that dispatchers began receiving multiple 911 calls at 5:12 pm about a shooter inside the library, which was open at the time. Police Chief Billy Aldridge stated during a press conference that an open 911 line allowed dispatchers to hear gunshots and screaming. Officers arrived at the scene six minutes later and entered the library. The suspect fled out the back as officers made entry but was taken into custody without incident.
Victims and Suspect
Police confirmed two fatalities and one injured child, whose condition has not been disclosed. Authorities said there is no indication that Sayer had any prior relationship with the victims. The motive for the shooting remains unknown.
Community Impact
Chico, a college town with a population of about 107,000, is located 90 miles from the state capital in Butte County. The Butte County library announced that all branches would be closed on Tuesday, expressing condolences to everyone affected. Megan Dahle, who represents Chico in California's senate, called the incident stunning and heartbreaking, noting that libraries are meant to be safe places for families.
Investigation
Detectives are receiving support from local, state, and federal agencies, including the FBI, which has offered to assist in the investigation. Butte County has experienced previous active shooter incidents, including a 2024 shooting at an elementary school where two kindergartners were injured but survived, and a 2022 Greyhound bus shooting that killed a woman and injured four others.
