Two Killed, Child Injured in California Library Shooting as Staff Credited With Preventing Greater Tragedy

A quiet afternoon at a public library in Northern California turned into a scene of horror after an 18-year-old gunman allegedly opened fire inside the Butte County Library in Chico, killing two people and injuring a child.

Authorities say the suspect, identified as Bradley Scott Sayer, was taken into custody within minutes of the attack. Investigators believe the shooting was a deliberate act, and officials are continuing to examine the suspect’s motive.

Deadly Shooting Unfolded Inside the Library

According to the Chico Police Department, officers responded shortly after 5 p.m. on June 22 following multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire and screams inside the library.

Investigators say the suspect initially entered the building, left briefly to retrieve a shotgun from his vehicle, then returned and opened fire. Two adult patrons were fatally shot, while a young girl suffered non-life-threatening injuries, reportedly from broken glass as she escaped the violence. The suspect attempted to flee through the rear of the building but was quickly apprehended by officers without incident.

Library Staff Helped Protect Children and Visitors

As gunfire erupted, library employees acted immediately to protect those inside the building.

Witnesses and officials say staff quickly guided children and other visitors into secure areas, locked doors, and followed emergency lockdown procedures while waiting for police to arrive. Authorities believe those rapid actions helped prevent additional casualties during the attack. Police also praised the swift emergency response, noting that the suspect was taken into custody less than four minutes after the first 911 call.

Suspect Faces Murder Charges

Police have identified the suspect as 18-year-old Bradley Scott Sayer of Chico.

Investigators allege Sayer acted alone and had no known connection to any of the victims. According to law enforcement, evidence recovered during the investigation suggests he was influenced by the 1999 Columbine High School massacre. He has been charged with two counts of murder and is being held without bail while the investigation continues. Prosecutors have indicated they are not seeking the death penalty.

Community Mourns the Victims

The victims have been identified as Jacob “Cody” Hull, 46, and Robert Johnson, 74. Friends and family have described both men as kind members of the community whose lives were taken in a senseless act of violence.

Following the shooting, all Butte County library branches were temporarily closed while officials reviewed security procedures and offered support services to staff and patrons affected by the tragedy.

Investigation Ongoing

The Chico Police Department, assisted by the FBI and the Butte County Sheriff’s Office, continues to investigate every aspect of the shooting, including the suspect’s planning, online activity, and access to firearms.

Authorities have urged anyone with additional information, photos, or videos related to the incident to contact investigators as they continue building the case.