A Colorado school shooting at Evergreen High School, near Denver, has left one student dead—including the suspect—and two others injured, one critically, in a tragedy that authorities say unfolded inside and outside the school building on Wednesday afternoon.
What Happened
- The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office reports a juvenile male student opened fire at Evergreen High School, approximately 30 miles west of Denver, at about 12:24 p.m. local time. Colorado Public Radio2Axios2
- Using a revolver handgun, he fired multiple shots at fellow students. Some of the shooting occurred outdoors and some inside classrooms. Colorado Public Radio1
- Authorities say the student then inflicted a self‑inflicted gunshot wound and later died from it. Colorado Public Radio2Axios2
- Two other students were shot. One remains in critical condition, while the other has non‑life‑threatening injuries. MySA3Colorado Public Radio3Denver 7 Colorado News (KMGH)3
- A fourth student was treated for injuries sustained while fleeing the scene. Colorado Public Radio1
Response
- More than 100 law enforcement officers from across the region responded. They searched the school room by room and swept the campus to ensure no other threats remained. Colorado Public Radio1
- The school, which has over 900 students enrolled, was locked down. Students were later reunited with parents at a nearby elementary school designated as the reunification center. Colorado Public Radio1
- Emergency medical teams transported the injured to CommonSpirit St. Anthony Hospital. Colorado Public Radio1
Who is Involved
- The suspect is a 16‑year‑old male student. Authorities have not released his identity. Colorado Public Radio
- The victims are schoolmates. Their identities have also not been disclosed. Axios1
- Authorities are investigating motive, and plans are underway to search the suspect’s home, locker, and vehicle. Axios
Statements from Officials & Community
- Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Jacki Kelley described the incident as an “active scene,” confirming the shooter was located within minutes of law enforcement arriving. She said: “Honestly, I don’t know if our suspect is old enough even to drive.” Colorado Public Radio
- Colorado Gov. Jared Polis expressed devastation, offering condolences to the victims and emphasizing the need for safe learning environments. Axios1
- Local officials and legislators expressed heartbreak and outrage, stating schools should never be places of fear. Colorado Newsline
Context and Background
- Evergreen High School lies in Jefferson County, which was also home to the 1999 Columbine High School massacre, a historic school shooting that claimed 13 lives on site and had broader repercussions on how U.S. schools think about safety. Axios2AP News
- This incident contributes to a disturbing pattern of school shootings in Colorado and across the United States. 9News1
What’s Next
- Investigators are working to determine motive, whether the suspect targeted any particular students, and how the weapon came into his possession. Colorado Public Radio1
- Mental health professionals and community resources are being mobilized to provide support for students, families, and staff traumatized by the event. jeffco.us1
- Schools and district leaders are reviewing safety protocols, including active shooter drills, law enforcement coordination, and how to respond rapidly to threats.
Impact & Reactions
- The Evergreen community, until now seen as quiet and relatively insulated from such violence, has been deeply shaken. Students described hearing multiple shots while outside or near campus, confusion, fear, and chaos as they sought shelter. Colorado Public Radio
- For many parents and community members, the idea of a shooting in their town had seemed remote—until now. Colorado Public Radio
Video
Here is a video summary of the Colorado school shooting at Evergreen High School, including the response, victim conditions, and community reaction:
Conclusion
Colorado school shooting at Evergreen High School is a stark reminder of the ongoing crisis of gun violence in schools. One young life has been lost, two others are wounded, and a far broader community is wounded emotionally. As investigations proceed, questions about motive, responsibility, and prevention loom large. The need for immediate attention to school security, mental health, and weapons access is urgent—not just in Colorado, but across the country.
