Trump Commends Parent for Stopping Oregon School Shooter

On Friday, President Donald Trump spoke to reporters at the White House, praising the armed individual who intervened during the tragic shooting at an Oregon elementary school the day before. He described this person as “a great hero,” according to reports.

“Well, I’ll tell you what. There was a great hero, and it could have been — as bad as it was, we had a great hero that went in and did the business,” Trump stated. “He took care of business.” He also emphasized the importance of having someone who was prepared to act in such a dire situation, mentioning how much worse things could have been without this individual’s actions.

Trump remarked, “And thank God we had him; otherwise it would have been much worse. It’s a terrible thing, but thank goodness for a man that had a gun and knew how to use it.”

Reports indicate that a parent from Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend chased the 16-year-old shooter after witnessing him breach locked doors with a firearm. The parent engaged the shooter, ending the threat just before police arrived. Local officials have credited the parent’s quick response with preventing further tragedy.

One source told another news outlet that the bystander “definitely prevented more deaths.” Federal law enforcement sources mentioned that the individual held a concealed carry permit.

Dispatch audio captured an emergency call where it was stated, “Looks like the shooter has been neutralized — possibly shot by a father at the school,” as reported by another media outlet.

The family of the hero, identified as Kaylub Giamanco, confirmed he is a Bend resident with two daughters attending the school. According to their statement, “He is not seeking recognition, but instead wishes to express his gratitude to the first responders, school personnel, and community for the outpouring of love and support.”

Tragically, three children aged 5, 8, and 11 lost their lives during the shooting, along with a teacher. A 7-year-old student and a 54-year-old teacher were also critically injured and required medical attention.

The shooter has been identified as John Griffin Jr. III, who used a shotgun purchased by his mother, although the motive for the attack remains unclear. It’s not yet known if he had any connection to the school.