In brief
Kaylub Giamanco, a 36‑year‑old father, battled a 16‑year‑old former pupil at Silver Rail Elementary, ending the tragedy but leaving an indelible emotional scar. Giamanco’s candid interview with Oregon Public Broadcasting reveals his vow to mourn the children he could not save and his ongoing sleepless nights. The shooter’s identity, Griffin J John II, is still under investigation. State officials, including Governor Tina Kotek, lauded the dad’s bravery while acknowledging the heavy mental toll.
Kaylub Giamanco, 36, who faced a 16‑year‑old former pupil with a gun outside Silver Rail Elementary, says he still weeps when he hears children’s pleas for their lives.
The shooter took the lives of three boys and a teacher before Giamanco stepped in with a handgun, driving the attacker back and ultimately killing him.
“I want to apologise for not saving their babies,” he told Oregon Public Broadcasting, urging “to meet the victims’ families and cry with them.”
The incident has left the community in mourning, with the youngest victim, 5‑year‑old Rhoam Summer, and teacher Megan Lambert, 25, named as key casualties. Giamanco’s moment as the “last line of defence” echoes across the state, as officials praise his courage but note the heavy emotional toll.
Governor Tina Kotek publicly thanked him, stressing the “heavy emotional burden” he carries. Giamanco now struggles with sleepless nights, replaying fragments of the shooting in his mind.
