16-Year-Old Student Opens Fire at Colorado High School, Wounds Two Before Taking Own Life

On Wednesday, a 16-year-old student opened fire at Evergreen High School in Colorado, wounding two classmates before taking his own life, according to the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office. The incident occurred around 12:24 p.m. local time, both inside and outside the school premises.

The suspect, identified as Desmond Holly, was armed with a revolver and fired multiple shots, striking one student inside the school and another outside. Both victims remain in critical condition. Authorities believe Holly had been radicalized by an unspecified extremist network, though further details about the group's identity have not been disclosed.

During the attack, Holly attempted to access various parts of the school but was impeded by locked doors and other security measures. Surveillance footage captured his movements through the three-story building. Notably, the school's resource officer was not present at the time; the full-time officer was on medical leave, and the part-time replacement had left earlier to respond to another emergency.

In response to the shooting, Evergreen High School will remain closed for the rest of the week, with counseling services available for students and staff. The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office is conducting a thorough investigation, including searches of Holly's home, vehicle, and school locker, to determine the motive and how he obtained the firearm.

Colorado Governor Jared Polis expressed his condolences, stating he was "devastated" by the shooting. He emphasized the need for safe learning environments and offered support to the victims and their families.