A learning specialist at Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend, Oregon, Cassidy Schutz, has publicly described her role in confronting a gunman during a deadly school shooting on October 15, as the school district released her statement on October 19.
Schutz, identified as the staff member who threw her cellphone at the gunman and fought him for his weapon, stated in a released statement that the attack was a "horrific and heartbreaking tragedy."
"There are no words to describe the depth of sadness I am feeling following the events of October 15th," Schutz said. "This is not a story. This is a horrific and heartbreaking tragedy, and it is our real lives."
Four people were killed in the shooting: three students and 25-year-old teacher Megan Lambert. Another student and a school employee were wounded before the 16-year-old gunman was fatally shot by a parent of two students who followed the assailant into the school, according to police.
Schutz, who was unharmed, said her focus remains on the victims, the school community, and her own recovery. She requested privacy and stated she does not plan to make further public statements.
Bend-La Pine Schools confirmed Schutz as a certified learning specialist at Silver Rail Elementary and described her actions as engaging directly with the assailant. Bend Police Chief Mike Krantz previously commended her actions, stating that after throwing her phone, she "tackled him and fought to take the firearm from him" in an act that "almost certainly helped prevent more bloodshed."
The father who fatally shot the gunman, Kaylub Giamanco, expressed gratitude for Schutz’s intervention. In an interview with Oregon Public Broadcasting, Giamanco said she allowed him the chance to act without getting hurt himself.
"I would love to give her a hug because that's a real true hero," Giamanco told OPB.
Police reported that the shooting unfolded inside a special needs classroom, where the gunman opened fire. Authorities have not disclosed a motive for the attack. The investigation is ongoing, and no further details about the assailant’s identity or background have been released.