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Today in History: Columbine High School tragedy claims 13 lives

4/20/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On April 20, 1999, seniors Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold executed a massacre at Columbine High School in Colorado, killing 13 students and one teacher while injuring 23 others. After the attack, which ended with their suicides, it became the deadliest school shooting in U.S. history, sparking widespread media coverage and a national conversation on school violence.

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Story summary

On April 20, 1999, seniors Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold executed a massacre at Columbine High School in Colorado, killing 13 students and one teacher while injuring 23 others. After the attack, which ended with their suicides, it became the deadliest school shooting in U.S. history, sparking widespread media coverage and a national conversation on school violence.