Additional Coverage:
Two Custodians Found Dead in Apparent Murder-Suicide at Chicago Elementary School
Tragedy struck Mark Twain Elementary School in Chicago on Monday afternoon when two custodians were discovered shot to death inside the building. According to the Chicago Police Department, a 63-year-old man allegedly shot his 48-year-old female co-worker before turning the weapon on himself.
The victims were found unresponsive just after 3:30 p.m. and were both shot once in the head. Despite being rushed to nearby hospitals, they were pronounced dead. Authorities recovered an unspecified firearm at the scene.
School principal Matthew Moline addressed the community in a letter to parents, confirming the incident occurred when no students were present in the school. “I am sorry to share that members of our school community were impacted,” he wrote, acknowledging the shock felt by families and staff alike.
The Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 73, representing custodial workers for Chicago Public Schools, verified that both victims were employees at Mark Twain Elementary. SEIU Local 73 Executive Vice President Trumaine Reeves expressed condolences, stating, “Two families have lost a loved one, and our prayers are with their families, as well as the staff, students, and families of the school.”
Reports from the Chicago Sun-Times indicate the older custodian had been distressed over a planned transfer from the school, which may have contributed to the tragic events.
Principal Moline assured the community that more information would be provided as the investigation continues, recognizing the deep concern this incident raises for everyone connected to the school.
Chicago authorities and Chicago Public Schools have been contacted for further comment as the investigation remains ongoing.