CHICO, Calif. — A shooting incident occurred at the Chico branch of the Butte County Library in Northern California on Monday evening, resulting in two fatalities and one minor injury to a child. According to Billy Aldridge, chief of police for the city of Chico, law enforcement responded promptly after receiving a 911 call around 5 p.m., during which gunshots and screams were audible.
Upon entering the library, officers encountered an active shooter situation but managed to apprehend the suspect shortly afterward near the building's rear exit. The streets surrounding the library were temporarily closed as authorities secured the area and established a family reunification center for those affected by the incident.
The Butte County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that there is currently no serious threat to public safety, though they have not released any identifying information about either the victims or the suspect. Police stated their belief that the shooter acted alone but did not disclose further details regarding the motive behind the shooting.
In response to this tragic event, all branches of the Butte County Library system will remain closed on Tuesday as part of a county-wide directive aimed at ensuring community safety and facilitating ongoing investigations by law enforcement agencies involved in the case. The county issued an official statement offering condolences "to everyone affected, including the victims, their loved ones, library staff, and all those impacted by this heartbreaking incident."
The identities of both the deceased individuals and the suspect have not been made public pending notification to next-of-kin families. Law enforcement continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding Monday’s shooting but has provided no additional information beyond confirming that two people lost their lives in what appears to be an isolated act of violence at a local library facility.
**UPDATE:** As of Tuesday morning, all Butte County Library branches will remain closed for further investigation and support services.