Teacher Threw Phone At Gunman In Oregon School Attack, Police Chief Says
Bend-La Pine Schools released the first statement from Cassidy Schutz, who helped subdue the shooter at Silver Rail Elementary.
By Luca Harrison ·
Cassidy Schutz threw her cellphone at the gunman during the October 15 attack at Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend, Oregon, according to Bend Police Chief Mike Krantz. The certified learning specialist also wrestled the shooter for his shotgun during the incident.
Bend-La Pine Schools released Schutz’s first public statement on Friday, one week after the deadly violence. The school district described the teacher’s actions as a key factor in saving lives and assisting a student’s father, Kaylub Giamanco, in taking down the armed teen.
“There are no words to describe the depth of sadness I am feeling following the events of October 15th,” Schutz wrote in the statement. “This is not a story. This is a horrific and heartbreaking tragedy, and it is our real lives.”
The shooting occurred on October 15 when a 16-year-old former student entered the elementary school and fired into a special needs classroom. Police said the shooter was killed during the incident.
Three people died in the attack: 25-year-old teacher Megan Lambert and students Rhoam Summer, 8, and 11. Two other individuals survived the shooting: teacher Becky Drury and a 7-year-old girl, who were both treated for gunshot wounds.
In her statement, Schutz said her focus is on the families, the school staff, and her own healing. “As I continue to navigate this, I ask that you please give me the time, space, and privacy I need to heal,” she wrote. “I will not be making any additional public statements at this time.”
The district confirmed that Schutz is a certified learning specialist at the school. The statement served as her first public communication since the events of October 15.
