In a devastating act of school violence, authorities have identified 16-year-old Desmond Holly as the shooter responsible for the tragic incident at Evergreen High School on Wednesday, September 10, 2025. Holly opened fire on fellow students, injuring two, before fatally shooting himself. The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating the motive and circumstances surrounding the attack, which has deeply shaken the Evergreen, Colorado community.
The Shooting at Evergreen High School
The incident occurred between 12:24 p.m. and 12:30 p.m. local time at Evergreen High School, situated in the foothills approximately 28 to 30 miles west of Denver. According to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Desmond Holly used a handgun to shoot two students. Shots were fired both inside and outside the school building. A report from CBS News indicated Holly fired multiple rounds and appeared to be seeking additional targets, but locked doors within the school acted as critical “roadblocks,” preventing further casualties.
Swift Response and Lockdown
Law enforcement responded rapidly to the scene. Deputies from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office made contact with the shooter within five minutes of receiving 911 calls. Authorities confirmed that no law enforcement officers discharged their weapons during the incident. Jacki Kelley, a spokesperson for the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, emphasized the crucial role of school staff and students in saving lives through their quick actions during the lockdown.
Victims and Shooter
The two injured students were immediately transported to local hospitals for treatment. While their identities have been withheld to protect their privacy, one student was reported to be in critical condition, while the other sustained non-life-threatening injuries, according to Colorado Public Radio. Desmond Holly, the identified shooter, died Wednesday night from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Investigation into the Motive
The motive behind Desmond Holly’s actions remains the subject of an intensive investigation. Jacki Kelley, spokesperson for the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, revealed that Holly “was radicalized by some extremist network” and had a “mission.” This statement, reported by multiple outlets including FOX 10 Phoenix and Bangla News, highlights the potential influence of external factors on Holly’s behavior. Authorities are meticulously examining Holly’s phone, locker, and family home in an effort to understand the nature of this network and how he acquired the firearm and ammunition.
Unraveling the Extremist Network
The investigation is focused on understanding the extent of the extremist network that allegedly influenced Holly. Law enforcement is working to determine the network’s ideology, its methods of recruitment, and the specific role it played in motivating Holly’s actions. This aspect of the investigation is crucial for preventing similar tragedies in the future.
Access to Weapons
A key element of the investigation involves determining how Holly obtained the handgun and multiple rounds of ammunition used in the shooting. Authorities are tracing the origin of the weapon and examining any potential violations of gun control laws. This part of the inquiry aims to identify any failures in the system that allowed a 16-year-old to acquire a firearm.
Community Response and Aftermath
In the immediate aftermath of the shooting, Evergreen High School and other nearby schools were closed on Thursday, September 11, 2025, and Friday. The community is deeply affected by the violence, and counselors have been made available to provide support to students and families. The Economic Times reports that this tragic event has reignited discussions on school safety and youth mental health within the community and across the state.
Support for Students and Families
Recognizing the profound impact of the shooting, Evergreen High School and the surrounding community have mobilized resources to provide emotional and psychological support. Counselors are available to help students and families cope with the trauma and grief associated with the event. These services are essential for fostering healing and resilience in the wake of the tragedy.
Renewed Focus on School Safety
The shooting at Evergreen High School has prompted a renewed focus on school safety measures. Discussions are underway regarding enhanced security protocols, improved mental health services for students, and strategies for preventing future acts of violence. The goal is to create a safer and more supportive learning environment for all students.
Continuing Investigation
The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office has indicated that the investigation into the Evergreen High School shooting will continue for several days. Authorities are committed to conducting a thorough and comprehensive inquiry to uncover all the facts and circumstances surrounding the incident. The findings of the investigation will be used to inform future policies and practices aimed at preventing school violence.
The tragic shooting at Evergreen High School serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address school safety, youth mental health, and the potential dangers of extremist influences. The ongoing investigation seeks to provide answers and inform preventative measures, while the community focuses on healing and supporting those affected by this devastating event.
