to apprehend the suspect. 

Oregon politicians also lauded the hero for his courage.

9 Police tape is placed outside Silver Rail Elementary school, where a school shooting left four people dead. AP Photo/Joe Kline

9 People stand near the scene of a shooting at Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend, Oregon, on Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026. via REUTERS

 To the community member who heroically intervened to stop further loss of life, your actions carry a heavy emotional burden and I just want you to know that my thoughts are with you,  Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek said.

Oregon State Rep. Vikki Breese-Iverson said she was  grateful to every first responder who stepped in with urgency to protect our community. 

 May the weight of God sit heavy with any soul who justifies this deed,  the Republican lawmaker said, branding the violence  senseless. 

9 Students from the neighborhood stand on the sidewalk at the scene following a shooting at Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend, Oregon, on Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026. REUTERS

The shooter headed toward the school just before 1 p.m where he was confronted by a Toyota Tacoma driver in the parking lot.

He fired several shots, shattering the rear window and riddling it with bullet holes.

The boy then shot at the locks on the school doors before breaking in and shooting innocent kids and their teachers.

9 Candles and a message written on the ground are seen at the site of a candlelight vigil at Drake Park for victims of the Silver Rail Elementary School shooting. REUTERS

Three students - ages 5, 8 and 11 - were killed along with a teacher.

Another student, age 7, and a teacher, 54, are critical in hospital.

Leah Schwartz, who lives near to the school, heard three gunshots, then another three shots.

9 Emergency personnel work at the scene following a shooting at Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend, Oregon on Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026. REUTERS

 They were spaced out, which made us question whether it was gunshots, or someone doing construction,  she told NBC.

Meanwhile, Sheil Smith moved her fifth graders to the corner of her classroom - revealing teachers feared for their lives.

9 A woman lights a candle during a candlelight vigil at Drake Park for victims of the Silver Rail Elementary School shooting. REUTERS

 I'm sure that every teacher at the school thought today is the day that I am going to die,  she said.  Save my kids. 

The shooting is Oregon's eighth fatal mass shooting since 1998.