CHICO, CA – An 18-year-old suspect is in custody following a horrific Monday evening shooting at a Northern California library that left two people dead and a young girl injured.
The Attack at Butte County Library
The shooting erupted shortly after 5:00 p.m. on Monday at the Chico branch of the Butte County Library. According to Chico Police Chief Billy Aldridge, officers intercepted and arrested the suspect as he attempted to flee out the back of the building.
The suspect, identified as Bradley Scott Sayer, was booked into the Butte County Jail on two counts of murder.
Victims Identified
Authorities confirmed that approximately eight rounds were fired during the attack. The victims, who were all library patrons, did not know the shooter.
- Robert Johnson, 74: Pronounced dead at the scene after being struck near the main entrance.
- Cody Hull, 46: Fatally shot in the back of the building while accompanying a friend’s young daughter to the library. He later passed away at a local hospital.
- Juvenile Female: The young girl with Hull sustained minor injuries from broken glass. She was treated at a hospital and has since been released.
Disturbing Columbine Obsession
Investigating officials revealed that Sayer targeted the library in hopes of executing a Columbine massacre-style shooting. At the time of his arrest, he was wearing clothing mimicking one of the 1999 Columbine killers.
Federal and local authorities tentatively believe Sayer acted alone and is associated with an online mass killer fandom group.
Weapons Recovered and Next Steps
Police recovered a shotgun from the library floor, and found two additional firearms inside the suspect’s vehicle parked outside.
The Chico Police Department, Butte County Sheriff’s Office, and the FBI are collaborating on the ongoing investigation. All branches of the Butte County Library remained closed on Tuesday following the tragedy. Authorities emphasize there is no ongoing threat to the community.
