Recognizing the Evergreen High School Shooting

Floor Speech

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Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the tragic shooting at Evergreen High School in Evergreen, Colorado, that occurred on September 10, 2025.

This senseless act of violence has left students, educators, and the greater Evergreen community in shock and grief. Two victims were hospitalized, and countless others are coping with the trauma of that day.

The courage of first responders, educators, staff, and community members helped prevent further harm and demonstrated the strength of our community in the face of crisis. Students and faculty at the school promptly followed safety protocols that saved lives, and a nearby recreation center employee sheltered more than 70 students until the danger had passed. The vigilance and quick action of community members inside and outside the school helped ensure the safety of students and staff.

The Jefferson County Sheriff, Reggie Marinelli, and the entire Police Department quickly responded with extraordinary service, arriving in under two minutes. That swift response saved lives and provided reassurance to the Evergreen community in its greatest moment of need.

In the aftermath of the incident, the Evergreen Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) mobilized to provide on-the-ground support for the community, including mental health resources, warm meals, and safe spaces. These community volunteers--in addition to many other supportive groups and organizations--have played a critical role in connecting families with needed services and ensuring the entire community has everything they need to re-enter their school.

Like far too many communities across Colorado and the Nation, this is not the first time the Evergreen community has been touched by gun violence. Yet, in the aftermath of this tragedy, Evergreen has demonstrated extraordinary resilience, uniting in support of one another as the process of healing begins.

On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, I stand with the Evergreen community, offer my condolences to the victims and their families, and reaffirm my commitment to ensuring every child can go to school without fear for their safety.

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