DENVER, Colo. — Authorities have identified 18-year-old Matthew Silverstone as one of the two students hospitalized after Wednesday’s shooting at Evergreen High School, an attack that has left students, families, and educators across Jefferson County shaken.
On Thursday afternoon, Silverstone’s family released a photo and written statement through the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, confirming his identity as one of the victims injured in the shooting.
Family Statement
In their statement, Silverstone’s family expressed gratitude for the overwhelming community support while asking for space to focus on his recovery.
“The family appreciates the community’s concern and support, but as we remain focused on our loved one’s recovery, we respectfully request privacy as we continue to heal and navigate the road ahead,” the statement read.
Authorities said the second hospitalized victim’s family has also requested privacy and has chosen not to release a statement or photo at this time.
The Shooting
The shooting unfolded just after 12:24 p.m. on Wednesday, when a student opened fire both inside and outside Evergreen High School. The attack left two students wounded before law enforcement intervened.
Officials confirmed that both injured students were transported to local hospitals, where they are continuing to receive medical treatment. Their current conditions have not been publicly released.
The incident prompted an immediate lockdown at the school and a massive law enforcement response from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, school resource officers, and other first responders.
Community Response
News of the shooting sent shockwaves through Jefferson County and the greater Denver area, with parents, students, and educators expressing a mix of fear, anger, and sorrow. Vigils and gatherings are already being organized by community groups and faith leaders to show support for the victims and their families.
Local officials have praised students and staff for following lockdown procedures that likely prevented further tragedy. Counselors and crisis response teams have been deployed to Evergreen High School to provide ongoing support to students and staff traumatized by the event.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances that led to the shooting, including the motive of the student gunman. Law enforcement officials have not yet released the shooter’s name, citing the sensitivity of the ongoing investigation and the involvement of minors.
Sheriff’s deputies are working closely with school administrators, reviewing surveillance footage, and interviewing witnesses as they try to piece together a full picture of the attack.
Conclusion
As Matthew Silverstone fights to recover alongside the second unnamed victim, the Evergreen community faces the difficult process of healing from yet another act of school violence. While details continue to emerge, families and officials alike have asked for compassion, respect, and privacy as those directly impacted take their first steps toward recovery.
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