Who’s Desmond Holly? Colorado school teen shooter linked to extremist radicalisation
Authorities have identified the teenager behind Wednesday’s shooting at Evergreen High School in Colorado as 16-year-old Desmond Holly, a boy described as appearing even younger than his age. Investigators believe he may have been influenced by extremist ideology before carrying out the attack.
The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Holly as the gunman, releasing a photo that showed his youthful face, sandy hair, and visible acne. Police say he opened fire on two fellow students — one inside the school building and another just outside — before turning the weapon on himself and taking his own life.
The Evergreen High School shooter has been identified as 16 year-old Desmond Holly. pic.twitter.com/h0tXtrUYvj
— Jeffco Sheriff (@jeffcosheriffco) September 11, 2025
Both victims were transported to separate hospitals. One remains in critical condition, while the other is listed as stable, according to officials.
Detectives have begun combing through Holly’s home, school locker, phone, and other belongings in an effort to establish a clear motive. A spokesperson told the Colorado Sun that early findings point to “some level of confirmation” that Holly had been radicalized through an extremist network.
The investigation is still in its early stages, but authorities say they expect more information to emerge as evidence is analyzed in the days ahead.
