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Gun control rally at United States Federal Courthouse, a few days after Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting
Gun control rally at United States Federal Courthouse, a few days after Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting
Original photo by Isabel White
UCF | Culture > News

School Shooting in Colorado Highlights Prevalance of Gun Violence

Ianelys Baez Student Contributor, University of Central Florida
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UCF chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

Shots rang out at Evergreen High School today, located in the suburbs of Denver, Colorado, just after noon on Sept. 10, leaving three teenagers critically injured, including the suspected shooter from a self-inflicted wound, according to the Associated Press. The same report stated that over 100 law enforcement officers responded to the scene, who evacuated students to a nearby elementary school, which served as a reunification center. Parents, friends, and community members gathered anxiously outside the school, desperate for updates and reassurances about the safety of their loved ones.

Sources state that authorities are actively investigating the incident. Preliminary reports indicate that the suspected shooter was a student at the school, though the motive is still unclear. Investigators are reviewing security footage, interviewing witnesses, and coordinating with local and state officials to determine what led to the shooting. Officials have emphasized that updates on the shooting will be shared as more information becomes available.

The shooting occurred almost simultaneously with the fatal shooting of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, 31, at Utah Valley University. While unrelated, these tragedies underscore the unpredictable nature of gun violence and its impact on communities.

Students, teachers, and families at Evergreen are now grappling with the aftermath of this tragedy. Schools are meant to be safe spaces, but events like this highlight how quickly that sense of security can be shattered. The emotional and psychological impact on students, staff, and families can be long-lasting, making counseling and mental health support essential.

Sources show that law enforcement secured the campus immediately after the shooting. Students were guided to the nearby reunification center while authorities ensured there was no ongoing threat. According to CPR News, school administrators communicated with parents and guardians to provide real-time updates, reinforcing the importance of preparedness and coordination during such crises. Families have been advised to remain alert and support students as the investigation continues.

This incident highlights the importance of proactive safety measures in schools. Security protocols, early warning systems, and clear communication plans can save lives during emergencies. Equally important is fostering a culture where students feel safe reporting concerns and accessing mental health resources.

Even as Evergreen High School begins to recover, the broader implications remain clear. Gun violence can affect any school at any time, emphasizing the need for preparedness, safety resources, and community support. Updates on the Evergreen High School shooting will continue as authorities release more information.

Community members are encouraged to come together to support students, educators, and families during this difficult time. The Evergreen High School shooting is a stark reminder that schools must prioritize safety and mental health resources to protect everyone within their walls.

Ianelys is a senior at the University of Central Florida majoring in Psychology on the Expiermental track with a minor in Health Sciences. She is passionate about cancer research, particularly childhood cancer, inspired by her mother's diagnosis. Ianelys plans to become a psycho-oncologist, combining her interests in psychology and oncology to support cancer patients. Originally from Puerto Rico, she enjoys advocating for her culture. In her free time, she loves cooking, taking pictures of the sky, listening to music, and spending time with family and friends. She is the only girl out of five brothers.