Bend Police Confirm Firearm in Silver Rail Elementary School Shooting Was Purchased Legally

BEND, Ore. — The firearm used in last Thursday’s deadly shooting at Silver Rail Elementary School was purchased legally, the Bend Police Department confirmed in an update Wednesday, Oct. 21.

Police continue to investigate the Oct. 15 shooting, which left four people dead and two others injured. The suspect, identified as 16-year-old Griffin J. John II, also died during the incident. AP News

The department said it is not releasing additional information about the firearm at this time.

As students returned to Bend public schools Wednesday, dozens of police officers were stationed at schools to welcome students and provide reassurance to students, staff and families. Officers were also expected to be present at the end of the school day.

Police said an increased law enforcement presence around schools is likely to continue over the coming days and weeks as the community works through the tragedy.

The Bend Police Department is also working with Bend-La Pine Schools officials as they review school safety protocols and operations.

Meanwhile, detectives are continuing what police described as a complex investigation. Investigators have served search warrants at the suspect’s home and on his electronic devices and social media accounts across multiple platforms.

Police said the investigation into the firearm and other circumstances surrounding the shooting remains ongoing.

“There are still a lot of pieces to this case that we are unable to share at this time,” the department said, asking the public for patience as investigators work to preserve the integrity of the investigation.

The department emphasized that it remains committed to conducting a thorough investigation before releasing additional details.