Bend-La Pine Schools Superintendent Dr. Steven Cook struggled to hold back tears during a Thursday evening news conference.
“Today, an unthinkable tragedy happened at Silver Rail Elementary School,” Cook said as he opened his remarks.
“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 … today it happened to our children, our teachers and our families.”
Cook’s voice wavered as he praised school employees for their courageous efforts to protect and assist students during the crisis.
“To our staff who helped our students and protected our kids today, we thank you. You did what no one should ever be asked to do. I am so grateful beyond words for your efforts,” he said.
He urged residents to support one another in the aftermath. “This is a time to love and care for one another … Please hold your loved ones tight tonight … We are going to rally and care for one another … We will get through this.”
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Bend Mayor Melanie Kebler also spoke of the community’s grief, saying, “Our hearts are broken.”
“A school should be a safe place where children can learn and feel secure. What happened today should never happen,” Kebler added.
Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek thanked emergency personnel and a bystander who pursued the suspect into the school, crediting the person with helping prevent “further loss of life.”
“To the community member who heroically intervened … your actions carry a heavy emotional burden and I want you to know my thoughts are with you as well,” Kotek said.
“My heart is absolutely broken today … this is a horrible day. No parent should have to have this kind of day.”
