A tragic incident unfolded when a boy shot at Colorado High School in Evergreen on Wednesday, sending shockwaves across the Jefferson County community. Multiple students were hospitalized following the violence, and the suspect, a fellow student, turned the gun on himself.
How the Shooting Unfolded at Evergreen High School
Shortly after 12:24 p.m., emergency dispatchers received multiple reports of shots fired at Evergreen High School in Jefferson County, Colorado. Witnesses described hearing gunfire both inside and outside the campus as students ran for cover and teachers initiated lockdown protocols.
As alarms rang throughout the building, students scrambled into classrooms, closets, and safe corners, while faculty members quickly secured doors and attempted to calm those in their care. The tense moments left many fearing the worst as chaos spread through the hallways.
Deputies from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office arrived on the scene within two minutes of the first 911 calls. Their rapid response proved critical in containing the situation before it escalated further. Authorities were able to quickly identify the suspect and move in to neutralize the threat.
In a decisive action, deputies secured the firearm without discharging their own weapons. The swift and coordinated intervention is being credited with preventing what could have been a far greater tragedy. Officials later praised the immediate cooperation between law enforcement, school staff, and students, which played a crucial role in ensuring safety during the crisis.
The unfolding of events underscores the importance of emergency preparedness and rapid police response. While the incident left the community shaken, the fact that officers were able to apprehend the suspect so quickly provided some relief to parents and residents anxiously awaiting news of their loved ones.
Hospitalization Status
Officials have confirmed that two students remain hospitalized following the shooting at Evergreen High School. Both are in critical condition and continue to receive intensive medical care. One of the victims has been identified as 18-year-old Matthew Silverstone. Doctors describe the students’ conditions as “very serious,” and both families are being supported by crisis teams at the hospital.
The suspected shooter, 16-year-old Desmond Holly, was also transported to a local hospital after sustaining a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was listed in critical condition immediately following the incident but later died from his injuries on Wednesday evening.
Initial reports suggested that more students may have been transported for treatment, including those injured while fleeing, but current updates confirm that only two shooting victims remain hospitalized. Law enforcement officials stress that medical conditions can change quickly as doctors continue treatment, and the community is being asked to keep the victims and their families in their thoughts as they face an uncertain recovery.
Profile of the suspect
The shooter is described as a juvenile male, younger than driving age. He carried a handgun, believed to be a revolver, which he used during the attack. Investigators are seeking warrants to search his home, car, locker, and digital devices to determine motive and whether the act was premeditated.
Sheriff’s officials emphasized that no other suspects are involved and there is no ongoing threat to the community.
Read Also- Desmond Holly Evergreen Colorado: Community Shock After High School Shooting
Parents’ reunification and school lockdown
After the shooting, Evergreen High School was placed under full lockdown. Dozens of law enforcement officers secured the perimeter, and tactical teams swept classrooms one by one.
Parents were directed to a reunification site at a nearby elementary school. For many, the wait was agonizing, stretching for hours while officials cleared the campus. Families embraced in tears once students were released, many clutching their children tightly after frantic texts exchanged during the lockdown.
Community response
The Evergreen community, already living in the shadow of Columbine’s legacy, expressed heartbreak and disbelief. Churches and civic groups immediately began organizing vigils and support networks. School district leaders confirmed that counselors are available for students, staff, and parents.
Local residents described the atmosphere as eerily familiar, with many referencing the fear that has lingered in Jefferson County since 1999.
Statements from officials
Sheriff Jacki Kelley said the rapid police response likely saved lives. She underscored the importance of the school’s lockdown drills, crediting them with helping students remain calm under pressure.
Colorado Governor Jared Polis issued a statement expressing his concern: “Students should be able to attend school safely and without fear across our state and nation.” He added that his office is working closely with Jefferson County to ensure full support.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Evergreen High School, Jefferson County, Colorado |
| Date & Time | September 10, 2025, around 12:24 p.m. |
| Shooter | Juvenile male student, armed with a handgun |
| Victims | Four hospitalized: two critical, one stable, one treated fleeing |
| Shooter’s Status | Self-inflicted gunshot wound, critical condition |
| Police Response | Deputies on scene within 2 minutes, no police gunfire |
| Community Action | Vigils, counseling, parent reunification site established |
National conversation reignited
The tragedy has reignited debates over school safety and gun violence in the United States. Advocates for stricter gun laws pointed to the ease with which a minor acquired a firearm, while others highlighted the urgent need for better mental health resources in schools.
For parents and students in Jefferson County, however, the focus is not on policy debates but on healing. Many families described the day as their worst nightmare, relieved their children survived but devastated by the trauma inflicted.
Investigation continues
Law enforcement officials are processing evidence from multiple scenes inside and outside the school building. Detectives are interviewing students, teachers, and neighbors of the suspect.
The Jefferson County School District has not yet announced when Evergreen High will reopen, emphasizing that security, investigation, and emotional recovery are top priorities.
Closing thoughts
The incident at Evergreen High School is a painful reminder of how deeply school shootings have scarred Colorado and the nation. While the full picture is still emerging, what remains clear is the resilience of a community rallying to support its youth.
If you live in Colorado or elsewhere, your perspective matters—share your thoughts, express your support, and help keep the focus on solutions that protect students.