Updated 3:32 pm EST: A news conference given by the Kern County’s sheriff’s office confirmed that the shooter was a student, who opened fire in a classroom. He shot one student and shot at another, who he missed. A bullet grazed the teacher and the student, age 16, is in critical but stable condition. Passersby saw the student entering the school with a shotgun and called the police, which helped with the quick response time. The police commend the teacher and administrator who were able to talk to the student to prevent him from shooting others.

School is canceled at Taft Union High School tomorrow and counselors are available.

Updated 2:00 pm EST: An official from the Kern County’s sheriff’s office has confirmed that the shooter was a student. He seems to have used a shotgun, which police have recovered.

ABC News 7 in southern California reported a shooting at Taft Union High School near Bakersfield, California. Around 9 a.m. PST, shots were fired and students were evacuated to the school’s football field. Two victims have been shot and airlifted to the hospital. One teacher was also shot but suffered minor injuries and was treated at the scene. Police have taken the shooter into custody. Officers are now going from room to room to check for students. There is no news on who the shooter is or what may have led to the incident.

Many have pointed out that this shooting has taken place on the same day Vice President Joe Biden is meeting with gun rights group as part of his investigation into gun control. He will make his recommendations for new legislation next Tuesday.

Source: Salon.com