Bend carpenter Kaylub Giamanco details fatal takedown of school shooter, grapples with trauma

Key points

• Giamanco, a military veteran and father of two, was driving past the school on October 15 when he saw the shooter, Griffin J. John II, carrying a shotgun.
• He retrieved a .40-caliber handgun from his truck, called 911, and entered the school through a broken window after hearing gunfire.
• In a special education classroom, Giamanco shot the shooter after seeing a teacher struggle with him; the teacher survived but was severely injured.
• The shooting killed three students (ages 5, 8, and 11) and a 25-year-old teacher, Megan Lambert. Two others were seriously injured.
• Giamanco is experiencing severe PTSD, reliving the event nightly, and has stated he feels guilt for not saving everyone.
• He is using his platform to advocate for bulletproof glass and school resource officers, while avoiding political debates on gun control.

Background

The Silver Rail Elementary shooting occurred on October 15, 2026, in Bend, Oregon. Initial reports confirmed four deaths and the suspect's death by a bystander. Giamanco’s public account emerged a week later, providing detailed insights into the sequence of events and his psychological state.

How outlets are covering it

The Washington Post emphasizes Giamanco’s emotional turmoil and guilt over the victims he could not save. CNN highlights the tactical details of his intervention, including his use of a .40-caliber handgun and his decision to shoot the suspect multiple times to ensure he could not move. OPB provides a comprehensive narrative of Giamanco’s background, his military training, and his advocacy for school security improvements. BBC focuses on the perspective of teacher Becky Drury, who stated she pretended to be dead to survive, clarifying earlier reports about her actions. There is a slight discrepancy in the description of the shooter’s weapon; CNN and OPB mention a shotgun, while Giamanco’s account implies a rifle was thrown over the fence, though police confirmed a shotgun was used.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the rare but critical role of armed civilians in stopping mass shootings, particularly in schools. It also underscores the psychological toll on bystanders who intervene, as well as the ongoing debate over school security measures and gun control in the United States.

What to watch

Giamanco plans to continue advocating for improved school safety measures, including bulletproof glass and resource officers. He may also face further public scrutiny and media attention as the investigation into the shooter’s motive continues. The community is expected to hold memorial services and fundraising events for school safety improvements.