John Griffin Jr. III Identified in Silver Rail Elementary School Shooting in Bend, Oregon

John Griffin Jr. III, a 16-year-old from Bend, Oregon, has been identified in media reports as the gunman responsible for the deadly shooting at Silver Rail Elementary School on Thursday, October 15, 2026. The attack claimed the lives of three children and a teacher and left two other victims critically injured, devastating families and the wider community.

According to CBS News, two law enforcement sources briefed on the investigation identified the teenager as Griffin. Police said he was shot and killed by a bystander after entering the school and opening fire. Authorities have not announced a motive or confirmed whether Griffin had any connection to Silver Rail Elementary School.

Investigators are examining the circumstances leading up to the shooting. Sources told CBS News that authorities are reviewing Griffin’s computer, phone, social media accounts, search history, and other online activity. They are also investigating whether he had an interest in violent incidents, including previous mass shootings. Officials emphasized that the investigation remains in its early stages, and no definitive conclusions about his motivations have been established.

Law enforcement sources also told CBS News that the weapon used in the attack was a shotgun purchased by Griffin’s mother. Police Chief Mike Krantz said the gunman gained entry by shooting at locked school doors before a bystander confronted him and fatally shot him.

The victims included children aged 5, 8, and 11, along with an adult teacher. The youngest victim was identified as Rhoam Summer through fundraising efforts and a social media post by his father, Kelik Summer. A seven-year-old child and a 54-year-old teacher were transported to hospital with critical injuries.

The bystander was identified by his family as Kaylub Giamanco, a Bend resident whose two daughters attend Silver Rail Elementary School. His family said he was not seeking recognition and expressed gratitude to first responders, school personnel, and the community for their