An 18-year-old is accused of killing two people and wounding a child in a deadly shooting at a Northern California library late Monday, authorities said.
Police said they were alerted to an active shooter at a Butte County library shortly after 5 p.m., with officers racing to the scene after a 911 call captured screams and the sound of gunfire.
Responding officers took the suspected gunman, identified as Chico resident Bradley Scott Sayer, into custody after he allegedly attempted to exit through a rear door, officials said.
Sayer was booked into the Butte County Jail on two murder counts. The FBI and the Butte County Sheriff’s Office are assisting with the investigation into the fatal attack.
“The incident tonight was obviously very sad and very traumatic for a lot of people — very traumatic for our community,” Chico Police Chief Billy Aldridge said at a Monday night news conference.
Investigators said Sayer did not appear to know the victims and allegedly had a “desire to commit a Columbine High School massacre type of shooting.” Police said he appeared to have acted alone.
The shooting took place at the Butte County Library, a facility that regularly hosts programs for children and teenagers. In the aftermath, all library branches were closed Tuesday.
Gov. Gavin Newsom’s office issued a statement on the shooting.
ALSO READ: Daveigh Chase’s Final Days: Friends Searched Skid Row Before Her Tragic Death
“Our hearts are with the Chico community tonight,” Newsom said. “We are grateful to law enforcement for their swift actions to secure the scene and take the suspect into custody. No family should have to endure a tragedy like this. “
Rep. James Gallagher (R-CA), who represents Chico, says he is “heartbroken” by the shooting.
“I am heartbroken by the senseless act of violence in Chico tonight and am praying for the victims, their loved ones and everyone impacted by this tragedy.
“Thank you to the brave law enforcement officers and other first responders who responded quickly to protect our community. Chico is strong, and we will stand together in the days ahead,” he said.
The investigation is ongoing, officials said. Police are actively “conducting interviews, collecting evidence, and reviewing facts of the case.”
Chico is a city located about 90 miles north of Sacramento.
Download The California Post App, follow us on social, and subscribe to our newsletters
