EVERGREEN, CO — A quiet mountain town was rocked by violence on Wednesday afternoon when a student opened fire at Evergreen High School, critically injuring two classmates before turning the gun on himself. Authorities confirmed late Wednesday that the suspected shooter died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Timeline of the Attack
The shooting occurred just after 12:24 p.m. local time on September 10, 2025. According to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, the assailant—believed to be a student—used a revolver handgun to target fellow pupils inside and outside the school building. Officers arrived within minutes and secured the scene, but the damage had already been done.
Three students were rushed to St. Anthony Hospital in Lakewood, all in critical condition. One of them was the shooter himself.
Emergency Response and Lockdown
Evergreen High School, located roughly 30 miles southwest of Denver, was immediately placed on lockdown. Over 100 law enforcement officers swept through the campus room-by-room, ensuring no additional threats remained. Nearby Wilmot Elementary was also locked down as a precaution.
A reunification center was set up at Bergen Meadow Elementary School, where anxious parents waited to be reunited with their children.
Shooter’s Identity and Motive
As of Thursday morning, the shooter’s identity has not been released. Authorities have not disclosed the suspect’s age, though one official remarked, “I don’t know if our suspect is even old enough to drive”. Investigators are now searching the suspect’s home, locker, and digital footprint for clues about motive.
No manifesto or note has been found, and officials have not confirmed whether the victims were targeted or randomly chosen.
FBI Director Kash Patel Reacts
FBI Director Kash Patel issued a statement acknowledging the gravity of the situation:
“The FBI is aware of the tragic events unfolding near Denver and is fully supporting local authorities to ensure the safety of everyone involved”.
Federal agencies including the ATF have joined the investigation, signaling the seriousness of the incident.
Community in Mourning
Colorado Governor Jared Polis expressed heartbreak and solidarity:
“Students should be able to attend school safely and without fear across our state and nation. We are all praying for the victims and the entire community”.
Local residents, many of whom had never imagined such violence in their town, gathered for a candlelight vigil Wednesday night. One parent, Jen Weber, said, “I always knew it was ‘When, not if?’ But I didn’t ever really think it would happen here in Evergreen”.
🕯️ What Comes Next
As the investigation continues, Evergreen High School remains closed. Mental health counselors have been deployed to support students and staff. The tragedy has reignited national conversations about school safety, youth mental health, and gun access.
This heartbreaking event marks yet another chapter in America’s ongoing struggle to protect its children from gun violence—this time, in a town that never saw it coming.
