Oregon families grapple with explaining school shooting to children ‘Why did this happen?’ Oregon families help children cope after school shooting

Bend, Oregon, was shaken by a school shooting on Thursday that left three children and a teacher dead. Liz, whose seven-year-old nephew was present at Silver Rail Elementary School, described her nephew's difficulty in sleeping due to the sound of gunshots echoing in his mind. The shooter, 16-year-old Griffin John II, targeted a special needs class before being stopped by a nearby father armed with a gun.

Another student and a teacher were wounded but are recovering. Pediatrician Logan Clausen emphasized the importance of open communication with children about the tragedy, advising parents to listen to their children's concerns and address their questions accurately. Vigils were held in Bend, where many attended with their children, seeking support and answers.

For caregivers of children with special needs, the trauma's impact is heightened. Sherry Lauer, whose five-year-old granddaughter is nonverbal, is monitoring her granddaughter's comprehension of the event. Bend's community rallied by opening centers, restaurants, and parks for children to engage in activities, providing a safe space for healing.

One eight-year-old girl, who attended a vigil, expressed missing her mother and sought answers to her questions about the incident.