On Wednesday afternoon, September 10, 2025, a devastating shooting occurred at Evergreen High School, resulting in four students being hospitalized. Among the injured, two students are reported to be in critical condition, including the suspected shooter. Authorities have confirmed that three students suffered gunshot wounds, with the suspected shooter also among the critically injured. The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office has not yet determined if the shooter sustained a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
All three students in critical condition are currently receiving treatment at CommonSpirit St. Anthony Hospital in Lakewood. In addition to the gunshot victims, a fourth juvenile was transported to the hospital with injuries incurred while escaping the chaotic scene at the high school and seeking refuge at a nearby elementary school.
Jacki Kelley, the public information officer with the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, expressed the gravity of the situation during a press conference. "This is the scariest thing you could ever think could happen," she stated. Kelley also noted uncertainty surrounding the shooter's identity and whether there were additional shooters involved. Over 100 police officers from the Denver area responded swiftly to the scene to provide assistance.
Initial reports indicate that the shooter used a handgun, and authorities have not yet found any note or explanation for the attack. The incident appears to have taken place on school grounds but outside the main building. Evergreen High School, located approximately 28 miles southwest of Denver, has an enrollment of about 900 students, as reported by the state Department of Education.
Cameron Jones, a 9th grader at Evergreen High School, recounted his terrifying experience. While eating lunch outside, he heard three gunshots before a security guard urged him to flee. "I thought this was like a one-in-a-million thing, and it still feels surreal that it happened," Jones shared, reflecting on the unexpected nature of such violence in their community.
Jen Weber, a mother of a freshman student, expressed her shock after receiving a text from her son about the shooting while she was washing her car. “I think if I’m being honest with myself, I always knew it was ‘When, not if?’” Weber said, revealing her fears despite having grown up in Evergreen. She was anxiously waiting to reunite with her son as authorities continued their investigation.
Videos circulating on social media captured emergency service vehicles racing towards the high school as the situation unfolded. Colorado Governor Jared Polis addressed the incident, stating, “I am closely monitoring the situation at Evergreen High School, and am getting live updates. State Troopers are supporting local law enforcement in responding to this situation.” He emphasized the importance of ensuring students can attend school safely and without fear.
Authorities have urged parents to go to Bergen Meadow Elementary School at 1928 Hiwan Drive for reunification with their students. Outside the high school, a long line of anxious parents awaited news of their children. In response to the tragedy, Flatirons Community Church in Golden is planning a vigil on Wednesday evening at 7 p.m.
The Jefferson County Education Association, a teachers' union in the district, released a statement highlighting the psychological toll such incidents take on communities, especially those that have endured past tragedies like the Columbine shooting in 1999. “Colorado has lived through this pain too many times. We cannot become numb. We cannot accept this as normal,” they stated, demanding meaningful action to address the epidemic of gun violence in schools.
In light of the shooting, all Jefferson County school athletics and activities for Wednesday have been canceled. As the situation develops, authorities are continuing their investigation, and further updates will be provided. This remains a deeply concerning event for the Evergreen community and beyond.
