The school security officer who “engaged” a would-be murderer in southeast Maryland Tuesday has been identified by local officials; with parents around the country praising his heroic actions that saved countless lives of students and faculty.
According to the Washington Post, police have named Blaine Gaskill, a 34-year old St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Deputy, as the guard who fired at least one shot at the unnamed attacker; stopping the rampage before any fatalities occurred.
While law enforcement have confirmed that Gaskill and the shooter exchanged fire, they claim it could take days to determine if the guard’s bullet was the one that struck and killed the assailant.
“Officials didn’t confirm whether Gaskill hit the attacker, who was pronounced dead at and has not been identified, or whether he took his own life,” writes the Post. “St. Mary’s County Sheriff Timothy K. Cameron said there was ‘no question’ that Gaskill’s quick arrival at the scene and immediate engagement with the shooter prevented more injuries.”
A 16 year old female student and a 14 year old male student were injured during the incident; with no known motive at this time.