2013 Sparks Middle School Shooting

At approximately 7:15 a.m., before classes began, 12 year old Jose Reyes arrived at school with the concealed handgun. He first shot and killed Michael Landsberry, a 45-year-old math teacher and former Marine, who heroically attempted to intervene and protect students. Reyes then shot and seriously injured two 12-year-old classmates, wounding one in the shoulder and another in the abdomen. After the brief but terrifying spree, Jose Reyes turned the gun on himself and died by suicide.

Investigators found no definitive motive, but Reyes had been experiencing behavioral and emotional issues. A video left behind by Reyes suggested he was angry over being teased and bullied at school. He mentioned his intent to “make a name” for himself and expressed hostility toward certain classmates and the school environment.

Victims

Michael Landsberry – teacher, shot and killed while confronting the shooter.

Jose Reyes – shooter, died by suicide.

Two unnamed 12-year-old male students were injured and both survived after surgery.