A tragic shooting occurred on Wednesday afternoon at the Feather River School of Seventh-Day Adventists in Palermo, California, critically injuring two young boys, ages 5 and 6. The shooter, whose identity has not been released, died at the scene from a suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound. The incident took place shortly after 1 p.m. at the small religious K-8 school, which has fewer than three dozen students.
Butte County Sheriff Kory L. Honea suggested the shooter might have targeted the school due to its religious affiliation, though no prior connection between the suspect, victims, or institution has been found. The gunman was reportedly dropped off by an Uber driver, who is cooperating with detectives. Initially, the shooter met with an administrator about enrolling a child, but shortly after, he began firing.
The two injured children, both kindergarteners, were transported to a trauma center in Sacramento and remain in extremely critical condition. Among the victims is Elias, whose grandmother, Debbie Wolford, provided an update on his condition, asking for prayers for his recovery and the other child. Elias underwent surgery, and while stable, he faces a long road to recovery.
The gunman’s body was found near playground equipment, alongside a handgun. The motive remains unclear, and authorities are notifying the suspect’s family before releasing his identity. Law enforcement swiftly secured the scene, gathering children in a gymnasium before transporting them to the Oroville Church of the Nazarene for reunification with their families.
Travis Marshall, senior pastor of the Oroville Church of the Nazarene, described the reunification process as deeply emotional. Jocelyn Orlando, a sixth-grader, recounted hearing the shooting and following lockdown procedures before being moved to the gym. Laurie Trujillo, a spokesperson for the Northern California Conference of Seventh-Day Adventists, expressed sorrow over the tragedy and gratitude for the sheriff’s office's quick response.
Assemblyman James Gallagher, representing Palermo, issued a statement expressing heartbreak for those impacted and calling for prayers for the victims. This shooting is the latest in a series of violent incidents at schools across the U.S., reigniting debates over gun control and school safety.
The Feather River School of Seventh-Day Adventists, serving the Palermo community since 1965, is part of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, which emphasizes the Bible as its creed and believes in the imminent return of Christ. Palermo, a town of about 5,500 residents, is now grappling with the aftermath of this tragic event. Authorities continue to investigate and urge anyone with information to contact the Butte County Sheriff’s Office. The community remains in mourning, united in prayers for the recovery of the two young victims.
