Crime & Safety
Oregon Gun License Applications Surge After School Shooting
Bend, OR – Interest in concealed handgun licenses has surged in Central Oregon following last week's shooting at Silver Rail Elementary School, with more than 200 residents signing up to begin the lic
By Natalie Brooks · 2026-10-22T19:04:25.913Z
Bend, OR – Interest in concealed handgun licenses has surged in Central Oregon following last week's shooting at Silver Rail Elementary School , with more than 200 residents signing up to begin the licensing process as concerns about personal and family safety grow.
According to the Deschutes County Sheriff 's Office, 204 individuals have signed up to begin obtaining a Concealed Handgun License, or CHL, since the school shooting. The increase has prompted officials to schedule additional firearm safety training opportunities.
Sheriff Ty Rupert said the rise in interest reflects a pattern often seen following major incidents affecting local communities.
"Often after major incidents that impact our community, we see more interest in concealed handgun licenses," Rupert said. "This trend is consistent with what we have observed historically, and we understand why many residents are thinking more about personal and family safety right now."
To accommodate demand, the sheriff's office has scheduled an additional concealed handgun license training class for Saturday, November 14, from 7 a.m. to noon.
The class will take place at the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office, located at 63333 Highway 20 in Bend.
Officials say the class has 45 available spots, with nine residents already registered as of Thursday. The $150 cost includes training and application fees. Additional classes may be scheduled depending on demand.
Oregon requires applicants to complete approved handgun safety training, submit an application, pass a background check and attend an in person appointment. Applicants must also meet applicable age, residency and legal eligibility requirements.
Rupert emphasized that firearm ownership comes with responsibilities, including understanding state laws, safe handling and secure storage.
Residents interested in registering can visit https://deschutescounty.setster.com/ .
Additional licensing information is available at https://sheriff.deschutes.org/services/concealed handgun license/ .