Oregon leaders respond to deadly Bend school shooting

State and campaign responses

At least three children and one adult were killed in a shooting at Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend on Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026, prompting responses from elected officials across Oregon.

Gov. Tina Kotek and state Sen. Christine Drazan, who are running against each other for governor, each released a statement about the shooting on X.

U.S. Rep. Janelle Bynum said she was pausing activity in her reelection campaign. Her 5th Congressional District includes part of central Oregon. Deschutes County Commissioner Patti Adair, Bynum’s opponent in the 5th District election, also said she was pausing campaign events.

Oregon’s congressional delegation

U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden expressed sympathy for the victims and their loved ones. He also called for Congress to pass gun laws intended to reduce the risk of similar attacks and the fear experienced by students, families and school employees.

U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley also issued a statement on X. Oregon U.S. Reps. Suzanne Bonamici, Maxine Dexter, Val Hoyle and Andrea Salinas posted statements as well.

State legislative leaders

Oregon House Republican Leader Lucetta Elmer said students should be able to learn without fear and parents should be confident their children are safe at school. She thanked the Bend Police Department and other first responders for acting quickly.

State Rep. Vikki Breeze Iverson, whose district is in central Oregon, called the violence against children senseless. She said her commitment was with the affected families, students and teachers and thanked first responders for urgently protecting the community.