Cam Tu Nguyen | Student Life Editor
October 12, 2025
The Evergreen High School community remains in shock after the tragic school shooting that occurred on Wednesday, leaving two students injured. Authorities identified the shooter as 16-year-old Desmond Holly, a student at the school who later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The incident began around 12:30 p.m., when students and staff reported hearing gunfire on campus. Witnesses said multiple shots were heard both inside and outside the main building, in total about 20 rounds. Teachers and administrators immediately called 911, and law enforcement arrived at the scene within two and a half minutes of the first call. Officers quickly placed the school and the surrounding neighborhoods under lockdown to prevent further danger.
The entire incident lasted only about nine minutes, but in that short time, two students were shot, one inside a classroom and another outside near Buffalo Park Road. 18-year-old Matthew Silverstone suffered serious injuries during an altercation and was transported to the hospital. His family has expressed gratitude for the community’s concern but frequently requests privacy. But we know that he remains under medical care and faces a long recovery. A 14-year-old student was also injured in an argument with the shooter outside the school. During the fight, he was thrown to the ground before being shot. He was taken to the hospital immediately and later reported to be in stable condition.
Investigators from local and federal agencies began reviewing the suspect’s motives, and it showed that Holly had been involved with extremist online content and had expressed interest in previous school shootings. Authorities believe he was influenced by violent online activities that promote extremist behavior. Investigators continue to analyze his social media activity, phone records, and computer data to determine his motives and whether the attack was planned in advance. Law enforcement confirmed that the suspect acted alone and that there is no further threat to the community
After the incident, Evergreen High School and the Jefferson County School District began a reopening plan to help students and staff safely return to campus. Teachers, counselors, and administrators returned first to prepare classrooms and clean the campus. The school has also provided counselors and specialists to offer one-on-one sessions and group discussions for those affected by the tragedy. Throughout the community, residents, organizations, and local businesses have shown strong support for the students and families. A memorial wall has been created outside the school’s main entrance, filled with flowers, handwritten messages, and posters in memory of the victims. Local coffee shops and restaurants also opened their doors as safe and comforting spaces for students and parents to gather and connect.
Amelia Winkler, a sophomore at San Clemente High School said that “it’s heartbreaking to see this happen at school. I feel bad for the victims and their families, and I just hope something is done so it does not keep happening.” Lila Whitaker, another sophomore, added that “this tragedy reminds us how important it is to enforce stronger laws that could help prevent this in the future.”
Counselors continue to visit classrooms, offering emotional support for students who may still feel anxious about returning to school. Teachers also adjusted schedules to allow time for reflection, helping students process what happened.
Although the tragedy brought pain and fear to students, teachers, and residents, it also brought the community closer together. School events have provided opportunities for residents to unite and heal. Students have created artwork and encouraging messages that now decorate the hallways. As Evergreen continues to move forward, students, teachers, and residents remain strong together.
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