Berwyn, Illinois – A middle school in the Illinois suburbs will be closed Wednesday following a shooting nearby that resulted in three fatalities, including the shooter.
Authorities indicated that all three individuals died at the scene close to Lincoln Middle School, and the event seems to have connections to domestic matters. The Berwyn North School District 98 clarified that the deceased individual was not a student at the school.
Officers reported that when they responded to gunfire shortly after classes ended, neither students nor staff were harmed, but many were still in the vicinity when the shooting occurred.
“I was in my room around four o’clock, and I heard about ten gunshots,” recounted Jonathan Garcia, a local resident. “Then, about thirty seconds after the last shot, I saw police arriving.”
“Honestly, I was scared. I kind of panicked,” he added.
Footage showed a noticeable police response at a gas station nearby on 16th Avenue.
Upon their arrival, officers observed a male suspect shooting a rifle into a vehicle directly outside the school. Two individuals inside the car were killed.
According to police, responding officers fired at the suspect, though they did not return fire. The gunman later shot himself inside a nearby home, as reported by the school district.
The identities of the suspect and the victims have yet to be revealed.
In light of the threat, Lincoln Middle School was put on immediate lockdown to protect students and staff, with reports indicating that students were escorted safely behind the school while police investigated the area.
Berwyn police assured the community that there was no further threat following the incident.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have labeled it as an “isolated incident.” Community members with pertinent information are encouraged to contact the police.
Consequently, the Berwyn North 98th School District decided to cancel classes at Lincoln Middle School for Wednesday.
An official statement from the school district mentioned:
“Today, at approximately 4:05 PM, a gunman approached a car in front of Lincoln Middle School and opened fire before turning the weapon on himself. Tragically, this led to three deaths, none of whom were students. This is a domestic incident, and there is no ongoing threat to the school community.”
“Given today’s situation, Lincoln Middle School will not hold classes tomorrow. However, for those needing support, social workers and counselors will be available. Students can also come and go from the school as needed.”
— Dr. Michelle Smith, director, Berwyn North School District 98
