In Oregon school attack, teacher fought attacker before armed father killed suspect, police say

Attack at the elementary school

Three children and teacher Meghan Lambert, 25, were killed in a classroom during the attack. The children included five-year-old Rhoam Summer; the families of the other two victims, aged eight and 11, have not publicly identified them.

Police named the suspect as 16-year-old Griffin J John II, who had previously attended the school and was a student with special educational needs there. Investigators believe he walked to the school, but his movements and how he obtained the gun remain under investigation. Police said the motive is not clear.

Teacher and father intervened

Lambert struggled with the suspect on the classroom floor, according to the account of the incident. A bystander with a pistol then ran inside and shot the teenager.

The bystander’s family identified him to US media as Kaylub Giamanco. Police said he had a legally concealed .40-calibre pistol in his vehicle, and that he fired at the suspect multiple times, killing him.

Police and president respond

Bend Police Chief Mike Krantz praised the teacher and the father, saying their actions saved lives. On Friday, he said those who intervened to keep the tragedy from becoming worse deserved gratitude. US President Donald Trump also praised the bystander, calling him a “great hero.” Giamanco’s brother said he grabbed the pistol and “decided to go in after” the suspect.