California Library Shooting Leaves Two Dead, Child Injured
A tragic shooting at a public library in Chico, California, claimed the lives of two adults and left a child with injuries, authorities said. The incident unfolded on the evening of June 22 when emergency dispatchers received several calls reporting gunfire and screams coming from inside the Butte County Library.
Officers reached the scene within minutes and entered the building while the suspect allegedly attempted to escape through a rear exit. Law enforcement officers who had established a perimeter outside arrested the suspect without any exchange of gunfire.
The injured child was transported to a local hospital and is expected to recover.
Police Say Suspect Wanted to Carry Out Columbine-Type Massacre
Investigators identified the suspect as 18-year-old Bradley Scott Sayer. According to police, evidence gathered during the investigation suggests his motive was inspired by a desire to commit a shooting similar to the 1999 Columbine High School massacre.
Authorities said the suspect acted alone and that there is no indication he had any relationship with the victims or any specific connection to the library. He was booked on two counts of murder while investigators continue to collect evidence and interview witnesses.
Federal authorities and local investigators are working together on the case.
Community Mourns Following Deadly Attack
Police officials described the shooting as a deeply traumatic event for the community. The victims’ identities have not yet been publicly released as authorities work to notify family members.
Following the tragedy, all branches of the Butte County Library system temporarily closed while investigators processed the scene and officials focused on supporting those affected.
The investigation remains active, and authorities are asking anyone with information related to the incident to come forward.
