[Updated 2:22 PM Central] Reports are coming in that there has been a school shooting situation at Umpqua Community College 3 hours south of Portland, Oregon. Initial reports indicate that 10 people have died and more than 20 are wounded, and the perpetrator is currently “detained.” Reports also indicate that the wounded include one female victim who was shot in the chest. An audio recording of the police radio from the event has been published which shows that in less than five minutes the police were exchanging gunfire with the attacker, and the attacker used a “long gun.”
One first responder is reporting that they found “multiple patients in multiple classrooms,” transporting 11 patients to the hospital (of which two subsequently passed away). The shooting took place within the classrooms of one single building.
An online posting has been found that may have been made by the attacker before event, but that is unconfirmed at this time.
Umpqua Community College is a “gun free zone” meaning no guns are allowed on campus and concealed carry is forbidden. The following warning to that effect is posted on the campus security web page:
Possession, use, or threatened use of firearms (including but not limited to BB guns, air guns, water pistols, and paint guns) ammunition, explosives, dangerous chemicals, or any other objects as weapons on college property, except as expressly authorized by law or college regulations, is prohibited.
Possession of knives with a blade longer than 4” is prohibited.
Brandishing weapons is prohibited.
Misuse of personal defensive weapons – e.g., pepper spray, etc. is prohibited. The owner is responsible and accountable for any misuse of these devices.
CNN’s anchors were just discussing that fact live on air, and Brooke Baldwin was clearly struggling with the concept that a “gun free zone” does not guarantee a lack of guns but is instead merely a polite request that disarms victims and does not provide any additional security. One of the guests on the phone has noted that “gun free zones” are prime targets for these events due to the inability of the victims to fight back and the long response time. Another commentator reiterated that even though Oregon is a “shall issue” state for concealed carry permits the “gun free” nature of the school means that it is an easy target because the victims are disarmed.
The parent of one student who was inside the school during the event claims that they did not hear any shots and therefore the attacker must have used a suppressor. Police report exchanging gunfire with the attacker, which pretty much debunks the idea of a suppressed firearm being used.
We will keep you informed as more information becomes available.