New details have emerged about how a 16-year-old gunman forced his way into an elementary school before opening fire in a classroom, killing four people and leaving others injured.
Citing reports about the investigation, Griffin J. John II first tried to enter the school through its front entrance but was stopped by people outside. He then moved to another entrance and used a shotgun to break through a locked door.
Once inside, the teenager headed toward a special-education classroom he had previously attended. Investigators are examining why he went to that particular room, though authorities have not publicly established a motive.
The October 15 attack killed three children, ages 5, 8 and 11, along with 25-year-old teacher Megan Lambert. A 7-year-old student and a 54-year-old teacher were also injured, according to reports.
A father whose daughters attended the school followed the gunman inside after hearing gunfire. The father, identified by his family as Kaylub Giamanco, confronted the shooter and fired at him. The teenager later died from his injuries.
A teacher also attempted to stop the gunman during the attack, reportedly throwing her cellphone at him and physically confronting him.
Police arrived within minutes of the first emergency call. Investigators continue to examine how the shooter entered the building, how the attack unfolded and what may have motivated him.
The tragedy has left families and the school community grieving. Authorities have not confirmed a motive, and the investigation remains ongoing.