Becky Drury recounts surviving deadly elementary school shooting in Bend

Teacher Becky Drury was wounded during an elementary school shooting in Bend, according to a statement released Wednesday. Drury stated she never had a chance to shelter any children during the violence.

A family friend issued the statement on Drury’s behalf. Drury remains hospitalized following the incident. She said she wanted to correct earlier reports about her actions.

Drury realized something was happening and ran to see what was going on. She immediately saw the shooter and rushed back to the classroom.

“I turned to shut the door behind me, but the shooter was already there,” Drury said. “Before I could do anything more, he shot me at close range and I fell to the ground.”

A gunshot nearly severed Drury’s left hand. The gunfire struck her right arm as well. She could not get up or defend anyone.

“I did the only thing I could do, which was to pretend to be dead in the hope he would not shoot me again,” Drury said.

The attack occurred last Thursday at Silver Rail Elementary in Bend. Former student Griffin J. John II, 16, blasted through locked doors with a shotgun. He then attacked the special education classroom.

The shooting claimed four lives:

• Three children, ages 5, 8 and 11
• One teacher

Another student suffered critical injuries. Authorities said a second teacher threw a phone at the gunman. She tackled him and wrestled for the weapon.

A father followed the gunman into the building and shot him. Drury noted some reports claimed she shielded a student.

“Accurate, respectful reporting is a truly important service that will help heal the wounds inflicted by that awful day,” Drury said.

Schools in the district reopened Wednesday for the first time since the shooting. Dozens of officers welcomed children at each school, the Bend Police Department said.

The department continues to investigate the shooting through search warrants. Detectives served warrants on the attacker’s home, electronic devices and social media accounts.

Police confirmed the pump-action shotgun had been legally purchased. A law enforcement source not authorized to speak told reporters the suspect’s mother bought it. Investigators said they are still examining how the boy obtained it.

Police departments conduct digital forensic analyses and serve search warrants to examine evidence. School districts coordinate with local law enforcement to offer security support following major incidents.

Drury remains under medical care in Bend as investigators continue looking into the case.