UPDATE: The suspected gunman has been identified ast Jose Reyes, 12.
RENO, Nev. – A Sparks Middle School student shot and killed a popular math teacher and wounded two other students before turning the gun on himself Monday morning.
The teacher who was killed has been identified as Michael Landberry, 45, a former marine. RGJ.com is reporting he was fatally shot while trying to convince the suspect to put down his weapon. Landberry is being hailed as a hero.
Just before shooting the teacher, the gunman shot two male classmates who were then taken to a local hospital. One was shot in the shoulder and the other was shot in the abdomen.
The suspect then took his own life.
About 20 to 30 students witnessed the incident and were questioned by authorities. Police say 150 to 200 officers responded to the shooting, reports the Associated Press.
CNN is reporting the shooter obtained the handgun he used in the attack from his parents.
Classes were cancelled for the day at Sparks Middle School and another nearby school, and parents were instructed to go to Sparks High School to pick up their children. Sparks Middle School will remain closed for the entire week.
The motive for the shooting remains unclear.
Related Articles:
- Protection Professionals Debate Campus Active Shooter Response
- Managing the Unimaginable: Crisis Communications After An Active Shooter Incident
- 3 Steps to Creating a Family Reunification Plan
Photo via Facebook
