New details released on suspect in deadly Northern California library shooting

Police have arrested a Chico teenager on suspicion of killing two people in a shooting at a public library that investigators say was inspired by the 1999 Columbine High School massacre. 

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The Chico Police Department announced in a news release that they identified the suspect as an 18-year-old and booked him into Butte County Jail on two counts of murder. SFGATE is not naming the suspect in keeping with recommended best practices around mass shootings.

“There is no indication [the suspect] had any prior relationship with or connection to any of the victims in the library at the time of the shooting,” the Chico Police Department said. 

The shooting unfolded Monday evening at the Chico branch of the Butte County Library. At 5:12 p.m., the Chico Police and Fire Communications Center received multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire and screams coming from inside the library, according to police. Officers arrived six minutes later and entered the building. 

“As Officers entered the front doors, the suspect exited from the back, where a perimeter had already been established, and was taken into custody without incident,” police said in a preliminary report on Monday night. 

Investigators later confirmed two adults were killed. A child who sustained nonlife-threatening injuries was taken to Enloe Hospital. 

Following the attack, investigators from the Chico Police Department, Butte County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI began interviewing witnesses, collecting evidence and reviewing the circumstances surrounding the shooting. 

“[His] motivation appears to be founded in a desire to commit a Columbine High School massacre type of shooting,” the Chico Police Department said.

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Shortly after news of the shooting circulated on Monday night, Butte County announced that all library branches would remain closed on Tuesday.

“We are aware of the tragic incident that occurred today at the Chico Branch of the Butte County Library and extend our deepest condolences to everyone affected, including the victims, their loved ones, library staff, and all those impacted by this heartbreaking incident,” the county said in a statement. 

Gov. Gavin Newsom echoed those sentiments, writing on social media: “Our hearts are with the Chico community tonight.” 

“We are grateful to law enforcement for their swift actions to secure the scene and take the suspect into custody,” Newsom said. “No family should have to endure a tragedy like this.”

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information related to the case is asked to contact the Chico police detective bureau at 530-897-5820.