Oregon teacher shares grief after school shooting, praised for courage

“There are no words to describe the depth of sadness I am feeling following the events of October 15th. This is not a story. This is a horrific and heartbreaking tragedy, and it is our real lives,” Schutz stated through Bend-La Pine Schools.

Bend Police Chief Mike Krantz previously acknowledged Schutz’s actions during the attack, noting she threw her cellphone and wrestled for control of the shooter’s shotgun.

Megan Lambert, 25, and three students – Rhoam Summer, age 5, and two other children aged 8 and 11 – were killed in the shooting. Becky Drury, another teacher, and a 7-year-old girl were injured but survived. Drury had previously recounted attempting to secure her classroom door before being shot, and later being saved by Kaylub Giamanco, 36, who fatally shot the attacker.

Schutz requested privacy as she continues her healing process. “My focus is on these families, our team, our school, and my own healing,” she said. “As I continue to navigate this, I ask that you please give me the time, space, and privacy I need to heal. I will not be making any additional public statements at this time.”

The 16-year-old former student initiated the attack by entering the school and opening fire in a classroom for students with special needs.