The victims, Roman Mendez, aged six, and five-year-old Elias Wolford, are currently being treated at a local hospital for severe internal injuries. Authorities have described their recovery as a lengthy and challenging process, requiring multiple surgeries.
The tragic event took place at Feather River Adventist School in Oroville, a small private institution affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church. The school offers education from kindergarten through eighth grade, serving a community of approximately 35 students.
The suspect, identified as 56-year-old Glenn Litton, was found deceased at the scene from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Investigations, aided by the FBI, are ongoing to understand Litton’s motives. Preliminary findings suggest he targeted the school due to its religious affiliation, possibly linked to unresolved personal history.
Prior to the shooting, Litton had arranged a meeting with school administrators under the guise of enrolling a family member. This meeting provided him access to the campus, where he subsequently initiated the attack. Surveillance footage revealed Litton concealing a firearm, which he used to carry out the shooting during the school’s lunchtime.
Litton had a lengthy criminal background, with previous convictions for theft, fraud, and forgery, along with a history of mental health issues. He was legally prohibited from possessing firearms due to his felon status. Despite these restrictions, he managed to acquire a weapon and execute this violent act.
The incident has once again highlighted the alarming prevalence of gun violence in American schools, with significant concerns over safety. It follows a series of at least 78 school shootings recorded this year in the United States, emphasizing firearms as a leading cause of death among children in the nation.
The local community has responded with deep empathy, hosting a candlelight vigil attended by a large crowd offering spiritual support and comfort. The sentiment was echoed by Nicole Hockley from the Sandy Hook Promise, who underscored the collective grief and shock shared by those affected by such incomprehensible violence.
As investigations continue, law enforcement remains on high alert, ensuring the safety of other schools affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church across the state. The community is determined to seek answers and ensure heightened vigilance to prevent future incidents.
The tragic events at Feather River Adventist School have deeply impacted the Northern California community, prompting introspection on the broader issues of gun violence and school safety. As Roman Mendez and Elias Wolford fight for their recovery, the community stands united, offering support and seeking solutions to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Source: WSVN
