A tragic incident in Minneapolis during the first week of school has drawn a strong response from students and the wider community.

“It’s kind of something we all have to live with, knowing that it could happen to us,” said Scott Jeffery.

Although the tragedy occurred states away, students say the pain and fear still hit close to home. “It’s devastating to everybody involved, and it’s just really saddening — the lives lost, and the people injured. It really breaks my heart,” said Jayla Thomas.

“A few years ago, this would have been breaking news. Now it’s kind of like, ‘There was another school shooting,’ and I think that’s a terrible thing we have to think about,” said Brody Barchrin.

“I think it’s a tragedy wherever it happens, but it’s especially sad because they were little kids, and they were praying at their chapel. It’s their faith — they were supposed to feel safe,” said Callie Kluitn.

“We have systems in place to keep us safe — a system that scans everyone, and a person at the front door who checks everyone’s bags,” said John Fleming.