On April 20, 1999, two high school seniors, Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold, entered Columbine High School in Littleton, Colorado, armed with guns, homemade bombs, and knives. They went on a shooting rampage, killing 12 students and a teacher, and injuring over 20 others before turning their weapons on themselves. The attack lasted for several hours and was one of the deadliest school shootings in U.S. history at the time.
The incident shocked the nation and raised many questions about gun control and school safety. In the years following the shooting, schools across the country implemented stricter security measures, such as metal detectors and surveillance cameras. The tragedy also sparked a national debate about mental health and the impact of violent video games on young people.
In the aftermath of the shooting, many communities came together to mourn and support the victims and their families. Several organizations were established to promote gun control and prevent school violence, including the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence and the National School Safety Center.
Today, on the 24th anniversary of the Columbine shooting, we remember the victims and their families, and continue to work towards creating safer schools and communities.
