Oregon Democrats Issue Statement in Response to Silver Rail Elementary Shooting

For Immediate Release
Thursday, October 15, 2026
Contact: [email protected]

Portland, OR - Today, Democratic Party of Oregon Chair Nathan Soltz issued a statement in response to the shooting in Bend in which three children and one adult were killed, and one adult and one child were injured.

"In moments like this, there are no words that can adequately capture the scope of the loss that this community feels. This is a time for grieving together, praying together, and joining together to support our neighbors, who are experiencing a tragedy that no one should ever have to experience.

"We are grateful to the school staff who moved quickly to keep students safe. We are grateful to the first responders who moved swiftly and professionally to control the situation. We are grateful to the bystander whose heroic actions stopped further loss of life. These are all heroes, deserving of the highest praise for their quick thinking in a time of crisis.

"We share our love with the community in Bend. Families that are grieving, those who experienced life-changing injuries, and all of the community members who have been affected in a myriad of ways - all of them have our unconditional love and support. As we grieve today, and in the days ahead, let us hold our friends, loved ones, and neighbors in Bend in our hearts. May the memories of those who were taken from us today be a blessing."

###