‘Unspeakable grief’: 5 things to know about the Colorado school shooting
3. Shooting took place during class
Giasolli, who has known Erickson for four years, said Erickson “came in late” to 9th period class — “Miss Harper’s British Literature.”
“He walked to the other side of the classroom where we also had another door and he opened the door. He walked back as if he was going to go back to his seat. Then he walked back to the other door and he closed it.
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“The next thing I know he’s pulling a gun and he’s telling nobody to move.”
Giasolli said Erickson had always been “very kind” to her and she “never thought that he would do something like this.”
4. Shooting happened miles from Columbine High School
The STEM school shooting happened less than 10 miles away from Columbine High School, where 12 students and one teacher were killed by two teens in a mass shooting in 1999.
It was the worst high school shooting in U.S. history at the time.
Just a few weeks ago, the state had observed the 20th anniversary of the Columbine shooting. Survivors participated in a day of service.
5. City, school offering grief support
A support center is being made available for students, parents, and staff at the local St. Andrew United Methodist Church on Wednesday and The Douglas County School District is providing grief support.
"All DCSD schools will have support staff available, on-site to help students and staff with processing today’s tragedy," said Douglas County School District Superintendent Thomas Tucker.
"Feelings can be especially overwhelming at a time like this. There is no right way to express the sadness, grief and confusion that students will feel when they encounter a tragedy.
"We are a united family. We are here to support each and every one of you — students, parents and staff — and will continue to do so as long as needed."
Colorado Governor Jared Polis expressed his condolences and noted that the state was offering assistance.
“I‘m absolutely heartbroken to learn that a STEM school student was killed in the shooting today. I cannot imagine the grief & horror that the family is dealing with. Our deepest condolences go out to the family, the community, & everyone impacted by this senseless act of violence,” Polis stated.
“Colorado has really come together and shown support for the kids and families affected … America has seen too many of these senseless acts of violence.
“It’s really about the outpouring of support from all sectors for the families directly affected."
