Bend police respond to active shooter report at Silver Rail Elementary

The Bend Police Department dispatched officers to Silver Rail Elementary School in Oregon on Thursday following a report of an active shooter, prompting a large security presence in the immediate area. Authorities directed the public to avoid the vicinity while families of students were routed to a designated reunification site.

The department identified Journey Church, located at 61303 S. Highway 97 near Goodwill and Dairy Queen, as the location where students' families should gather. In a public statement, the police department confirmed its presence at the school and reiterated the instruction for the public to stay away. "The Bend Police Department is currently at Silver Rail Elementary School after a report of an active shooter," the statement read. "There is a large police presence in the area. Please avoid the area."

As of the latest reporting, officials had not released details regarding injuries or a specific suspect. It remained unclear whether authorities had confirmed that gunfire actually occurred at the school. The department stated it would share additional information as soon as possible.

Sen. Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., said he and his team were monitoring the situation closely. On X, Merkley expressed concern for the Bend community, noting that no one should have to fear violence at school.