Terror shocks Tehama County

Map+of+Tehema+County+in+California

Creative Commons illustration

Map of Tehema County in California

At Rancho Tehama Elementary school in Northern California, Kevin Neal, pulled up fully equipped with weaponry and began openfire on Tuesday, Nov. 14.

The attackers first two victims were his neighbors, who he believed were running a methamphetamine lab which had fumes that harmed his nine dogs. He then arrived to the school and began firing with a semi-automatic rifle and two handguns. He then stole a truck and proceeded to carry out drive-by shootings on nearby residences, according to CNN.

At least 5 people are found to be dead, including the shooter. A dozen are found to be injured, according to Fox News. Police heard the shots from a quarter-mile away and rushed to the school and shot the attacker on the side of the road. The students were transported to the hospital by helicopter and others were moved to a safe area on the school bus.

Neal’s mother spoke out saying he has been frustrated for a long time and that he left a message saying that he is “on a cliff and there’s nowhere to go.” Also, Neal called his mother the day before saying “it’s all over now”, according to Associated Press. The mother was unaware of Neal being involved in the case until a reporter contacted her, according to Associated Press.

Sheridan Orr, Neal’s sister, spoke out saying he has struggled with mental illness and has had violent temper. She did not believe he would ever own any weapons. Yet, there is still no known motive to be found of the killer, according to Phil Johnston an assistant sheriff. 

 

 

 

The school took action immediately going into lockdown. This caused for Neal to be frustrated and return to the car. There are 10 people currently being treated at the hospital. They are all in critical condition, but the rest of the information is unavailable to the public.