Littleton, Colorado – The 20th of April, 1999 is a day etched in American history because of the tragic events that unfolded at Columbine High School. Two students, Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold, orchestrated a devastating attack, leaving 12 students and a teacher dead, and many others injured. It was a day that changed the lives of those who survived forever, including Craig Scott, who was studying for a biology test in the library when the shooting began.
Fast forward 25 years, Craig Scott, now 41, vividly recalls the horror he experienced that day. Hiding under a desk, paralyzed with fear, he witnessed the gunmen taunting and killing classmates. One of the victims was his own sister, Rachel Joy Scott, the first person slain in the rampage. The loss of Rachel inspired Craig to share her story, spreading a message of forgiveness and kindness.
The Columbine shooting was a wake-up call for the nation, marking a shift in how schools approached safety and preparedness. Frank DeAngelis, the former principal of Columbine High School, dedicated his life to training law enforcement and first responders on how to handle active shooter situations. His efforts have saved countless lives and changed the narrative on school safety protocols.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, survivors like Krista Hanley have grappled with survivor’s guilt and PTSD. Despite the trauma, she has channeled her experience into advocacy work, co-founding an organization focused on self-defense and emergency preparedness. The legacy of Columbine lives on in the resilience of its survivors, who continue to find healing and purpose in the face of tragedy.
As we reflect on the 25 years since Columbine, it serves as a stark reminder of the impact of gun violence and the need for ongoing efforts to prevent such tragedies. The stories of courage and resilience from survivors like Craig Scott, Frank DeAngelis, and Krista Hanley demonstrate the power of hope and forgiveness in the face of unimaginable loss.