Oregon School Shooting: Teacher’s Heartbreaking Experience

A teacher injured in last Thursday’s school shooting in Bend, Oregon, recounted her harrowing experience, revealing that she attempted to close the classroom door before pretending to be dead, hoping it would spare her from the gunman’s attention.

Becky Drury shared her statement with the media on Wednesday, coinciding with the Bend Police Department’s confirmation that the gun used in the attack on Silver Rail Elementary was obtained legally. This tragic incident resulted in the deaths of three children and one teacher.

Drury recalled, “Once I realized something was happening outside, I ran to see what was going on. Then I saw the shooter and immediately ran back into the classroom. I turned to shut the door behind me, but he was already there. Before I could react, he shot me at close range, and I fell to the ground.”

She further described the severity of her injuries: “Lying on the floor, I noticed that my left hand was nearly severed from the gunshot, and my other arm was also badly hurt. I couldn’t get up, defend myself, or protect anyone else. So, I did the only thing I could think of—I pretended to be dead, hoping he wouldn’t shoot me again.”

Drury expressed the profound impact of the tragedy, saying, “What happened in that classroom was unimaginable, and like many in this community, my heart is broken for everyone affected by this tragedy. My thoughts are with those who were hurt, those we lost, their families, our school, and the Bend community.”

The Bend Police Department is currently engaged in a complex investigation, stating that detectives have executed search warrants at the shooter’s home and examined his electronic devices and social media, which is an ongoing process that requires time.

Authorities indicated that the 16-year-old shooter was “neutralized” by a good Samaritan during the incident. In the aftermath, the Bend-La Pine Schools have started to welcome students back to other schools as the community begins to heal.

“Heartfelt artwork and messages of love have reminded our students and staff that they are surrounded by a community that cares deeply for them,” the school district commented, highlighting the support being provided in the wake of such a tragic event.