Former Football Star Credited With Stopping Gunman at Oregon School

A student who carried a shotgun into a classroom at a Oregon high school on Friday was stopped by the school's football coach before he could hurt anyone, police in Oregon said.

Keanon Lowe, a former football star at the University of Oregon and now works as the school's football and track coach, is being hailed as a hero after he tackled the distraught student who was carrying a gun.

"I’m just happy everyone was OK," Lowe said according to Oregon Live. "I’m happy I was able to be there for the kids and for the community."

According to a statement from Parkrose School District Superintendent Michael Lopes Serrao, two students had informed staff members about "concerning behavior" by the suspect.

Police were notified, but by the time they arrived on campus, Lowe and other security staff had already found and disarmed the suspect.

"Investigators have determined that the subject was armed with a shotgun," the Portland Police Department said in a press release about the incident. "He then entered a classroom; at some point, a staff member at the high school confronted him. A Portland Police School Resource Officer and other officers arrived and immediately entered the school and found the staff member detaining the subject in the hallway."

Police are unsure whether the suspect fired any shots at any point.

"Incidents such as the one that occurred today strikes the worst fear in the hearts of students and parents," Chief Danielle Outlaw said in a statement. "The officers and school staff worked together to respond quickly and ensure the safety of all involved. I commend the school staff member who displayed quick actions and bravery when he confronted the subject."

Police identified the suspect as 18-year-old Angel Granados Dias. He's currently being held on charges of Possession of a firearm in a public building, Attempting to discharge a firearm at a school, Reckless endangerment, and Possession of a Loaded Firearm in a Public Place. Dias is currently being held at the Multnomah County Detention Center.

Photo: Portland Police Department


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