A tragic incident unfolded at Evergreen High School in Colorado on Wednesday, September 10, when a 16-year-old student opened fire, injuring two classmates. The shooter, identified as Desmond Holly, died of self-inflicted injuries on Wednesday night.

Details of the Shooting

According to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Holly used a revolver handgun and fired repeatedly around 12:30 p.m. local time, bringing scores of first responders to the school. He had brought a significant amount of ammunition with him and reloaded multiple times during the attack.

Investigation and Motive

Authorities believe Holly was radicalized by an extremist network, although they have not specified which one. The investigation is ongoing, with the Sheriff’s Office seeking warrants to search Holly’s phone, locker, and family home. It’s unclear whether the victims were targeted, but authorities suggest the attack was both “random and targeted” based on the number of rounds fired.

Victims and Response

Two students were hospitalized at St. Anthony Hospital, with one in critical condition. None of the victims have been released from the hospital. The school went into lockdown, and the swift response from staff and students likely saved lives, according to Jacki Kelley, public information officer with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.

Community Reaction

The incident has sparked widespread concern and debate about gun violence and school safety. Colorado Governor Jared Polis condemned the “senseless act of violence” and offered support to the victims and their families. The Jefferson County Education Association expressed grief and frustration, calling for meaningful action to end gun violence in schools.¹ ²

Context: School Shootings in Colorado

This incident adds to a troubling legacy of school shootings in Colorado, including the 1999 Columbine High School massacre and the 2019 STEM School Highlands Ranch shooting. The community is left grappling with the aftermath and seeking ways to prevent such tragedies in the future.