Authorities in Northern California have revealed that the suspected gunman who opened fire at a private religious school, injuring two kindergarten students before killing himself, suffered from mental illness. The attack took place at the Feather River School of Seventh-Day Adventists in Oroville, leaving two boys, ages 5 and 6, critically injured. The 6-year-old boy sustained two gunshot wounds causing internal injuries, while the 5-year-old was shot in the abdomen. Both children remain in critical but stable condition after undergoing surgery.
The suspect, identified as Glenn Litton, 56, had a history of mental illness and a lengthy criminal record. Authorities believe that he used a fake story to gain access to the school, claiming he wanted to enroll his grandson. Surveillance footage showed Litton opening fire on students during their noon break before apparently taking his own life.
Investigators discovered that Litton may have targeted the school due to its affiliation with the Seventh Day Adventist Church. He had also researched and scheduled an appointment with another Adventist school in Red Bluff. Litton’s criminal history included theft, fraud, and identity theft, with no violent offenses on record.
Authorities believe the attack was an isolated incident fueled by Litton’s mental health issues. His long history of mental illness dates back to his teenage years, although he did not have a formal diagnosis. The investigation also revealed that Litton had considered planning a mass incident in the early 2000s, showcasing a pattern of concerning behavior. The incident has sparked debates about gun control and added to the growing number of school shootings across the country.
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