An 18-year-old gunman opened fire inside the Butte County Library in Chico, California, on Monday, killing two adults and wounding a child in what police described as an attempt to carry out a Columbine-style massacre.

The suspect, identified as Bradley Scott Sayer, burst into the library around 5:12 p.m. and began shooting, prompting multiple 911 calls that captured screams and gunfire over open lines.

Officers responded quickly, entering through the front while establishing a perimeter around the building, and arrested Sayer as he tried to flee out the back door.

Police have stated that Sayer acted alone and had no prior relationship or connection to any of the victims inside the library at the time of the attack.

Chico Police Department Chief Billy Aldridge said during a press conference on Monday night that the shooter’s motivation “appears to be founded in a desire to commit a Columbine High School massacre type of shooting.”

Two adults were killed at the scene, while a juvenile was shot and transported to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The identities of the victims have not been released pending notification of their families.

Governor Gavin Newsom issued a statement expressing condolences to the Chico community and praising law enforcement for their rapid response in securing the scene and taking the suspect into custody.

Our hearts are with the Chico community tonight.

We are grateful to law enforcement for their swift actions to secure the scene and take the suspect into custody.

No family should have to endure a tragedy like this.

— Governor Newsom Press Office (@GovPressOffice) June 23, 2026

“Our hearts are with the Chico community tonight. We are grateful to law enforcement for their swift actions to secure the scene and take the suspect into custody,” Newsom said. “No family should have to endure a tragedy like this.”

U.S. Representative James Gallagher also voiced heartbreak over the violence and thanked first responders for their efforts.

“I am heartbroken by the senseless act of violence in Chico tonight and am praying for the victims, their loved ones and everyone impacted by this tragedy,” Gallagher said. “Thank you to the brave law enforcement officers and other first responders who responded quickly to protect our community. Chico is strong, and we will stand together in the days ahead.”

Sayer has been booked into the Butte County Jail on two counts of murder, and authorities have confirmed there is no ongoing threat to the public.

The Chico Police Department, the Butte County Sheriff’s Office, and the FBI are all involved in the investigation, which remains ongoing.

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