Oregon college shooting: Army veteran Chris Mintz 'charged gunman' during attack
Nine people have died after alleged shooter Chris Harper-Mercer opened fire in the school
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.An army veteran has been hailed a hero after he reportedly charged a gunman in an attempt to save lives during the latest school shooting in the US.
Chris Mintz, 30, was taken to hospital after he was shot several times by the gunman during the attack on Umpqua Community College in Oregon on Thursday morning.
Cousin Derek Bourgeois confirmed he had heard Mr Mintz “went after the shooter”.
“There was no way he was going to stand around and watch something this horrific happen,” he told the MailOnline.
Having left the army, where he had been stationed in Fort Lewis in Washington state, Mr Mintz was apparently working at the YMCA while studying at the community college to become a fitness instructor.
An unidentified nurse, who claimed to have witnessed the attack and prayed with Mr Mintz after he was wounded, said during the attack he kept repeating: “It’s my son’s birthday, it’s my son’s birthday”.
Earlier in the day Mr Mintz posted a birthday message to his young son, Tyrik, online.
Family members claimed the father-of-one will need extensive rehabilitation, with some reports indicating he may have to learn to walk again after being hit in both legs.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments