BEND, Ore. — The Bend-La Pine Schools district expressed deep sorrow after a fatal shooting claimed the lives of three young students and a teacher. The district highlighted the bravery of the staff who risked their lives during the attack.
“Our hearts are broken,” the district stated in a social media post. “They responded to an attack on their school in a way for which we are forever grateful.”
Among those who died was Megan Lambert, 25, a special education teacher at Silver Rail Elementary School. Lambert had recently begun her teaching career with the district this fall.
Becky Drury, an inclusion educational assistant, sustained injuries during the attack. The district praised both Lambert and Drury for their courageous actions.
Remembering Megan Lambert
Lambert was remembered by the district as a shining presence for her students and the wider community. They stated, “She will be missed beyond words can express.”
Drury, who is recovering from her injuries, received an outpouring of community support. The district noted, “We continue to wrap our arms around Becky Drury.”
A learning specialist also showed exceptional bravery by confronting the shooter directly. The district expressed gratitude for her safety.
Community in Mourning
The shooting, which occurred about 170 miles south of Portland, has profoundly affected the Bend community. Residents gathered near Silver Rail Elementary to pay their respects to Lambert and the three young victims, including 5-year-old Rhoam Summer. The families of two other children, ages 8 and 11, requested privacy.
A 7-year-old girl, along with Drury, is recovering from injuries sustained during the incident, according to law enforcement.
Outside the school, a memorial has grown, with mourners leaving flowers, prayers, and chalk messages of support.
Heroic Interventions
Kaylub Giamanco, 36, was commended for his heroic actions. The father of two students at the elementary school confronted and fatally shot the teenage gunman during his lunch break. Utilizing a legally secured .40-caliber pistol, he pursued the shooter into the school.
Bend Police Chief Mike Krantz acknowledged the collective efforts of citizens and staff. A teacher’s direct confrontation with the gunman, throwing a cellphone and tackling him, stood out as a significant moment.
“The teacher… was willing to stand and fight for her children,” Krantz stated. “That is true heroism, undoubtedly helping avoid more bloodshed.”
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