36-Year-Old Carpenter Named as Man Who Stopped Oregon Gunman

A 36-year-old carpenter who was driving home from lunch when he heard gunshots is the bystander who ran into Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend, Oregon, and killed a 16-year-old gunman, according to his brother, Kyle, who spoke to NBC News. Police have not officially released the man's name, but his brother identified him as Kaylub, saying he holds a concealed-weapon permit and "decided to go in after" the suspect.

What happened inside the school?

Three senior law enforcement officials told NBC News the suspect gained entry Thursday afternoon by firing through locked doors. The shooting unfolded in a special education room, according to the brother and several parents who spoke to NBC News. A teacher and three children — ages 5, 8 and 11 — were killed. A 7-year-old and a second teacher were critically injured.

Who is the man who confronted the gunman?

The brother said the carpenter had just grabbed a bite to eat and was heading home when he spotted the gunman entering the building where his own two young daughters are students. Armed with a long gun, he went inside and killed the suspect, ending the attack before it reached other classrooms, officials said. Authorities have credited the intervention with limiting further casualties but have stopped short of naming him publicly.

Who was the suspect and how did he get his weapon?

The shooter has been identified by the three officials as John J. Griffin, 16. Two of those officials told NBC News the gun used in the attack was purchased by the suspect's mother around the time of his birthday in August. No further detail on the purchase has been released by investigators.

By the numbers

• 36 — age of the carpenter who confronted the gunman, per his brother's account to NBC News.
• 16 — age of the suspect, identified by three law enforcement officials as John J. Griffin.
• 4 — people killed: a teacher and three children, ages 5, 8 and 11.
• 2 — people critically injured: a 7-year-old and a second teacher.

Has law enforcement confirmed his identity?

As of Friday, officials had not named the person who stopped the shooter, describing him only as a community member whose actions prevented additional deaths. The identification came instead from the man's brother, who gave his account directly to NBC News on Friday, a day after the shooting.

What is still unknown?

Investigators have not detailed how the suspect obtained ammunition beyond the firearm's purchase history, nor have they released a motive. No additional charges or findings had been announced as of the time of NBC News' report.

The account rests on the brother's recollection of what he was told, corroborated in part by parents who described the location of the attack to NBC News. Official confirmation from police of the carpenter's identity had not been issued as of publication.

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