[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 156 (Tuesday, September 23, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E892]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             RECOGNIZING THE EVERGREEN HIGH SCHOOL SHOOTING

                                  _____
                                 

                        HON. BRITTANY PETTERSEN

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 23, 2025

  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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