The short version
- Kaylub Giamanco, a father of two students at the affected school, is identified by his family as the bystander who killed the shooter.
- The attack at Silver Rail Elementary resulted in four deaths and multiple injuries before Giamanco intervened.
- Law enforcement identifies the suspect as 16-year-old John J Griffin II, who used a shotgun purchased by his mother.
A lifelong resident of Bend, Oregon, has been identified by his family as the individual who ended a deadly shooting spree at Silver Rail Elementary School. Kaylub Giamanco, whose two daughters attend the school, was driving home when he heard gunshots and decided to intervene. His family confirmed on Friday that he fatally shot the 16-year-old suspect inside the building, stopping further violence during a chaotic afternoon that left four people dead and several others injured.
Giamanco’s relatives have asked for privacy in the wake of the tragedy, declining media interviews and emphasizing that he does not seek recognition. In a statement read by his mother to reporters, the family expressed gratitude for the support from first responders, school staff, and the broader community. They noted that while Giamanco is appreciated for his actions, he and his loved ones are not ready to speak publicly about the traumatic events.
A brother of Giamanco posted on social media to confirm the identity of the bystander, describing him as a hero while reiterating the family’s desire to remain out of the spotlight. The post acknowledged the heavy emotional toll of the incident and requested that the public respect their need for space during this difficult time. This private stance contrasts with the intense public scrutiny often directed at individuals involved in high-profile emergencies.
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek praised the actions of the community member who entered the school to confront the attacker, though she did not name him during a press conference. She acknowledged the significant emotional burden carried by those who intervene in such violent situations and extended her thoughts to the individual and his family. Her comments highlighted the complex aftermath faced by bystanders who take decisive action to protect others.
Bend Police Chief Mike Krantz provided details on the timeline of events, noting that officers responded within minutes of receiving multiple emergency calls from inside and outside the school. Upon arrival, law enforcement found that a community member had already engaged and shot the suspect. Officers subsequently located five individuals who had succumbed to their injuries, including the attacker himself. The rapid response by both civilians and police helped contain the situation.
The victims of the shooting include three children aged five, eight, and eleven, as well as one teacher. Two other individuals, a seven-year-old child and another teacher, were critically injured in the attack. The severity of the casualties has devastated the local community, prompting an outpouring of grief and support for the families affected. Schools in the area have likely implemented heightened security measures in response to the incident.
Law enforcement officials have identified the shooter as John J Griffin II. Investigators are currently examining the circumstances that led to the attack, including the source of the weapon used. Reports indicate that Griffin utilized a pump-action shotgun that had been purchased by his mother. The investigation into how the firearm was accessed and why the teenager carried out the violence is expected to be extensive and complex.
Police Chief Krantz warned that the inquiry would take considerable time, emphasizing the thoroughness required in such cases. A significant police presence will remain at the school for several days to ensure safety and assist with ongoing investigative efforts. The community continues to grapple with the shock of the event while awaiting further information from authorities regarding the motive and background of the suspect.
Sources behind this briefing
Go to the original reporting
- The Guardian World↗Bystander who killed Oregon shooter identified as father of girls at elementary school
