A 16-year-old student identified as Desmond Holly opened fire at Evergreen High School near Denver, Colorado, during lunchtime on September 10, 2025. He used a revolver and reloaded multiple times while firing both inside and outside the building. Two students were wounded, one inside the school and another outside. After the attack, Holly died by a self-inflicted gunshot. Authorities say he had been radicalized by an extremist network, though they have not yet disclosed which network.
Timeline & Response
The shooting was reported at about 12:30 p.m. Students fled or locked down once they heard shots. Law enforcement arrived quickly and found the suspect within five minutes. Some staff and students hid in locked rooms as Holly tried to access more areas, but locked doors prevented further harm. Windows and lockers were shot, and both spent and unspent rounds were found throughout the school.
Who Were the Victims
One of the wounded students has been identified as 18-year-old Matthew Silverstone. The second victim has not been publicly named. Both remain in critical condition. The family of Silverstone issued a statement asking for privacy as they focus on his recovery.
Investigations & Radicalization Claims
Authorities searched Holly’s home, phone, locker, and backpack. They also reviewed content on his social media. Investigators reported finding material linked to extremist ideas. Officials revealed that Holly had been radicalized, though they have not shared detailed evidence of which group or ideology influenced him. Motive remains unclear.
School Safety Measures & Limitations
Evergreen High did not have a full-time school resource officer that day because he was on leave. Part-time officers were not present due to other calls. The shooter could not break through secured doors protecting some areas. Despite that, the lack of full security coverage raised concerns about whether more preventive steps could help avoid future incidents.
Community and Official Reactions
Governor Jared Polis expressed deep sorrow over the incident and emphasized the need for improved school safety and mental health support. Other officials called for more attention to how radicalization happens among young people. Many parents, students, and community members are asking how guns and ammunition came into Holly’s possession.
What It Tells Us
This tragedy shows how radicalization and mental health issues can intersect with school safety. It highlights how quickly a school community can react in crisis with locked doors and sheltering protocols that likely prevented more injuries. At the same time, it reveals gaps in security, early detection, and access control that many believe need urgent attention. The focus now is on learning lessons, supporting victims, and preventing similar tragedies in other schools.
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