A shooting at the Butte County Library in Chico, California, on Monday, June 22, 2026, resulted in two fatalities, and a suspect is now in custody, according to law enforcement officials.
Details of the Incident
Authorities responded to reports of gunfire at the Chico branch of the Butte County Library in the early afternoon. The suspect was apprehended at the scene without further incident, police said. The identities of the victims have not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.
Chico Police Department Chief Bill Smith stated, “This is a tragic event for our community. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families. We are working diligently to understand the circumstances leading to this violence.”
Community Response
The shooting has shaken the quiet college town, home to California State University, Chico. Butte County Library officials announced the library would remain closed until further notice. A vigil is planned for Tuesday evening at the Chico City Plaza.
Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots before seeing patrons and staff flee the building. One witness, who asked to remain anonymous, said, “It was chaos. Everyone was running and screaming. I just grabbed my kids and got out as fast as I could.”
Investigation Underway
Police are investigating the motive and have not disclosed any potential relationship between the suspect and the victims. The suspect is being held at the Butte County Jail pending charges. The Butte County District Attorney’s Office is expected to file charges on Tuesday.
This incident adds to a growing list of mass shootings in public spaces across the United States. According to the Gun Violence Archive, there have been over 250 mass shootings in the U.S. so far in 2026.
