Silver Rail teacher shares first public words after October shooting

Bend-La Pine Schools issued the first written statement from Cassidy Schutz on Friday. Schutz is a certified learning specialist at Silver Rail Elementary School. She spoke publicly for the first time since the deadly shooting that took place on Oct. 15.

Bend Police Chief Mike Krantz detailed Schutz's actions during the attack. He said she threw her cellphone at the shooter and wrestled him for the shotgun he was holding. Her efforts helped save lives and assisted the students' father, Kaylub Giamanco, in taking down the armed teen.

Schutz described the event as a horrific and heartbreaking tragedy, not a story. She said there are no words to describe the depth of sadness she feels. "It all happened so fast, and I wish with everything in me that we had more time," she wrote. She added that she will carry the pain of this loss forever.

The statement focused her thoughts on those who were lost, their families, and those who were hurt. She asked for the time, space, and privacy she needs to heal. "I will not be making any additional public statements at this time," Schutz wrote.

Police said a 16-year-old former student entered Silver Rail Elementary and shot into a special needs classroom on Oct. 15. Teacher Megan Lambert, 25, was killed in the attack. Students Rhoam Summer, 5, and two other children, ages 8 and 11, also died. The shooter was killed as well.

Two people survived with gunshot wounds. Teacher Becky Drury and a 7-year-old girl were shot and are recovering. The school district released the statement to share Schutz's perspective on the events that unfolded in the classroom.