A tragic shooting occurred at a library in Northern California late Monday, where a teenage boy fatally shot two individuals and injured a child.
Emergency services rushed to the Butte County Library shortly after they received a 911 call that included screams and sounds of gunfire.
Upon arrival, police detained the suspect, 18-year-old Bradley Scott Thayer from Chico, as he was trying to escape through a back exit.
Thayer has been charged with two counts of murder and is being held at the Butte County Jail. The investigation into this incident is being supported by the FBI, alongside the Butte County Sheriff’s Office.
In a statement, Chico Police Chief Billy Aldridge remarked on the distressing nature of the event, noting its impact on the community.
Authorities indicated that Thayer did not seem to know his victims and allegedly aimed to replicate a shooting reminiscent of the Columbine High School tragedy. They believe he acted independently.
This incident took place at a library that frequently holds events for children and teenagers, leading to the closure of all library branches the following day.
California Governor Gavin Newsom expressed his condolences to the Chico community, thanking law enforcement for their swift actions during the chaotic scene.
Congressman James Gallagher mentioned his heartbreak over the senseless violence, emphasizing thoughts and prayers for the victims and their families while acknowledging the bravery of first responders.
The investigation is ongoing, with police actively gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses. Chico, located about 90 miles north of Sacramento, is grappling with the aftermath of this distressing event.
