December 6, 2024—A devastating incident unfolded at Feather River Adventist School in Oroville, California, resulting in two kindergarten students sustaining critical injuries and the death of the suspected gunman.
Incident Overview
On December 4, at approximately 1:08 p.m., an adult male suspect arrived at Feather River Adventist School under the pretense of enrolling a family member. Following a seemingly cordial meeting with the principal, the suspect opened fire on two young students, aged 5 and 6, on the school grounds. Both children were immediately transported to a nearby hospital and are reported to be in “extremely critical condition,” according to Butte County Sheriff Kory Honea.
Suspect Details
The suspect was found deceased at the scene from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound, with a handgun recovered nearby. Authorities are investigating the possibility that the suspect targeted the school due to its affiliation with the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Community Response
The small, close-knit school community, comprising approximately 35 students, is reeling from the tragedy. Parents and community members gathered at a local church to support one another and pray for the victims. A sixth-grade student, Jocelyn Orlando, was commended for her bravery in comforting younger classmates during the ordeal.
Ongoing Investigation
The Butte County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the FBI, is conducting a thorough investigation to determine the motive behind the attack. Authorities are also interviewing the Uber driver who transported the suspect to the school to gather additional information.
This tragic event highlights the urgent need for comprehensive measures to ensure the safety of students and staff in educational institutions.
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. For official updates, please refer to statements from the Butte County Sheriff’s Office and authorized agencies.