A bystander who intervened during a deadly shooting at Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend, Oregon, has been praised for stopping the attack that claimed five lives, including his own actions in killing the suspected gunman.
The suspect has been identified as 16-year-old John Griffin, a Bend resident, according to CBS News, citing law enforcement sources.
The man who confronted the teenager was identified by his family as Kaylub Giamanco, a lifelong resident of Bend whose two daughters attend the elementary school. Giamanco entered the school during the incident and shot the suspect, bringing the attack to an end.
US President Donald Trump praised Giamanco’s intervention, describing him as a “great hero”. Trump said the situation could have been much worse without his actions.
The shooting left three children and a teacher dead, alongside the teenage suspect. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the local community, with families and residents mourning the victims.
On Friday, the school remained cordoned off as investigators continued their work. Residents also visited the scene to lay flowers and pay tribute to those who lost their lives.
The attack has renewed debate over gun control in the United States. Groups advocating stricter firearm laws have called for action following the tragedy, while opponents of tighter restrictions argue that additional gun laws would not necessarily prevent similar incidents.
Authorities are expected to provide further updates as investigations continue, including details about the circumstances surrounding the shooting and the events leading up to it.
The community is now grappling with the loss of the victims while recognising Giamanco’s intervention, which officials and public figures say may have prevented further casualties.
