In brief
In Bend, Oregon, a 16‑year‑old former student opened fire at Silver Rail Elementary, killing three students and a teacher. The attacker was then shot by a parent. 54‑year‑old teacher Becky Drury was struck by a bullet and later revealed she pretended to be dead to avoid another death. Drury’s statement cleared up misinformation about her actions during the crisis. The incident has reignited conversations about school safety and gun control in the U.S.
Some readers may find this article distressing.
On 15 October, a 16‑year‑old former student at Silver Rail Elementary School opened fire, killing three kids and one teacher before a parent at the scene fatally shot the attacker. 54‑year‑old teacher Becky Drury was hit by a bullet while trying to shut the classroom door. She later told reporters she “pretended to be dead” to keep the shooter from shooting her again.
Drury described being severely injured: “my left hand was almost completely severed… I could not get up, defend myself, or protect anyone else.” She calls the event “unimaginable” and says her heart is broken for everyone affected.
Police said another teacher threw her phone to try to disarm the gunman, and a second teacher reportedly tried to shield a child. No names have yet been released for the teacher who tried to disarm the shooter. The motive for the teen is still unknown.
The tragedy has sparked renewed calls for stronger gun‑control measures and better safety protocols in U.S. schools. Parents, students and community members are calling for transparent investigations and support for survivors.
Swipe up to watch the full video recap of the 15‑October incident and learn more about how communities are moving forward.
