Disabled 7-year-old girl fights for her life after being shot in Oregon school attack

A 7-year-old girl with disabilities is fighting for her life after being shot in the face during a mass shooting at Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend, Oregon. Saylor Graham remains in serious but stable condition, according to local media reports.

The attack, which occurred Thursday, October 15, left three students and a teacher dead. Saylor and another victim, teacher Becky Drury, 54, were the only survivors, and both remained in serious condition, according to reports.

Saylor is known in her community for her joyful personality and pink glasses. She was previously adopted by Bend Senior High School through the Sparrow program, which encourages students to raise money and provide support for children with medical needs.

“Saylor is the definition of light and joy,” Matt Sampson, executive director of Sparrow USA, told Central Oregon Daily. He described the girl as courageous and inspirational, adding that the community was praying for her recovery.

According to a 2024 announcement, Saylor has CASK, a genetic condition affecting physical and cognitive development, as well as dysphagia, which makes swallowing difficult. She is nonverbal, frequently uses a wheelchair and can also walk independently.

As part of the Sparrow program during the 2024-2025 school year, students organized community service activities to help support her medical expenses and encourage her family.

Community rallies around survivors

The shooting has prompted an outpouring of support for Saylor and her family. A local restaurant, Portello Lounge, announced a fundraiser to help the young girl as she recovers.

Kaylub Giamanco, the father who fatally shot the gunman during the attack, also expressed a desire to reach out to Saylor’s family and offer support.

Investigators say the shooter, Griffin J. John II, entered a special education classroom and fired at least 15 shots before a teacher tackled him. Giamanco then intervened and fatally shot the attacker.

Three students, identified in reports as 5-year-old Rhoam Summer, an 8-year-old and an 11-year-old, along with teacher Megan Lambert, 25, were killed. Authorities continue to investigate the motive behind the attack.