A tragic incident unfolded on Wednesday at Evergreen High School, near Denver, when a shooting left two students wounded and the suspect later died from self-inflicted injuries, authorities confirmed.

The suspect, a fellow student, used a handgun both inside and outside the school, highlighting the urgent need for safer learning environments.

According to Jacki Kelley, spokesperson for the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, three students, including the shooter, were hospitalized. Dr. Brian Blackwood, head of trauma at CommonSpirit St. Anthony Hospital, reported that one student remains in critical condition, while the other sustained non-life-threatening injuries.

This incident underscores the humanitarian importance of protecting students, ensuring mental health support, and fostering secure spaces for children to learn and grow.

The community continues to grieve while authorities investigate the circumstances, emphasizing a shared responsibility to prevent such tragedies and support the victims and their families.