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Chico Library Shooter Arraigned on Murder Charges

A focus on digital evidence and alleged Columbine-inspired planning could shape a life-without-parole prosecution.

Overview

  • An 18-year-old man, Bradley Scott Sayer, is accused of opening fire at the Chico branch of the Butte County Library, killing two patrons and injuring a child in a rapid attack.
  • Police say the attack unfolded in minutes on Monday when callers reported gunfire, officers arrived within two minutes, and Sayer was taken into custody at the scene.
  • Sayer was arraigned Thursday on two counts of murder with firearm and special-circumstance enhancements and was ordered held without bail.
  • Prosecutors told the court they will not seek the death penalty and instead plan to pursue life without parole while investigators and federal agents sift through a journal, a pre-attack social-media video and other online activity tied to the suspect.
  • Officials recovered a shotgun at the library and two additional guns from Sayer’s vehicle, autopsies confirmed shotgun wounds for the victims, and local leaders are reviewing library security and victim support measures.