Coloradan Teen Who Died Saving Classmates from Shooter Could Become a Saint

Coloradan Teen Who Died Saving Classmates from Shooter Could Become a Saint

DENVER – A heroic act of bravery has led to the consideration of Kendrick Castillo, a Colorado teenager, for sainthood after his tragic death while confronting a school shooter. This move is seen by parishioners as a testament to his extraordinary courage and unwavering faith.

Kendrick Castillo was just 18 years old when he was killed on May 7, 2019. He died heroically while tackling one of the gunmen responsible for a shooting at STEM School Highlands Ranch. His selfless act provided his classmates with the chance to subdue the assailants and potentially prevented a much larger tragedy.

A Day of Tragedy and Heroism

As students in a British literature class prepared to watch the beloved film “The Princess Bride” as a year-end reward, chaos erupted. Two assailants, Devon Erickson and Alec McKinney, executed a tragic attack that shook the school to its core.

Kendrick, alongside his peers Joshua Jones and Brendan Bialy, charged at the gunmen. In a heroic struggle, Kendrick was critically injured but successfully distracted the attackers, giving his classmates the opportunity to disarm them. Tragically, he was the only student killed, while eight other students suffered injuries.

Remembering Kendrick Castillo

George Brauchler, the prosecutor for the case, lauded Kendrick’s heroism, stating, “You cannot overstate the heroism of Kendrick Castillo. On that particular day, he embodied the unexpected heroism that ultimately averted mass murder.” He noted that no one would have predicted Kendrick’s actions, yet he emerged as the ultimate savior.

Brauchler, who also handled high-profile cases such as the Columbine High School massacre, described Kendrick as a miracle baby and the only child to his parents, John and Maria Castillo. He reflected on how a street near the school has been renamed Kendrick Castillo Way and emphasized encouragement for his sainthood recognition from the Catholic Church.

Kendrick’s memory is not only honored in names but also in the significant steps toward his canonization. The Diocese of Colorado Springs has officially received a petition to consider Kendrick for sainthood. This process signifies both a recognition of his valor and a commitment to exploring how his life embodies Christian virtues.

Legal Ramifications for the Shooters

Following the shooting, Devon Erickson was convicted on 46 counts, including first-degree murder, which leads to a life sentence without the possibility of parole. His accomplice, McKinney, testified against him, resulting in a plea deal that may allow for parole after approximately 20 years.

In light of these developments, Kendrick’s father, John Castillo, believed his son guided the jury toward justice. He expressed gratitude, saying, “I’m sure he was looking down today. This day was justice for him.”

Eyewitness Accounts

Mitchell Kraus, a former student injured during the assault, recounted his experience vividly. He had walked Erickson to the nurse’s office moments before the shooting began, leaving him in disbelief that such a horrific act could follow so soon. Now attending college, Kraus feels closure knowing that Erickson will serve his sentence.

“Knowing that this monster, to be honest, will never see the light of day again is a relief,” he remarked, emphasizing the weight that has been lifted from his shoulders.

A Path to Canonization

The formal petition for Kendrick Castillo’s canonization aligns with the Catholic Church’s protocols. Although Kendrick had strong ties to the Archdiocese of Denver, the canonization process must be initiated by the diocese in which the individual passed away. Consequently, the responsibility has fallen upon the Diocese of Colorado Springs.

Father Patrick DiLoreto from St. Mark Parish highlighted that Kendrick’s actions may fit within Pope Francis’s “Offering of Life” category. This category recognizes individuals who sacrifice their lives for love of God and their neighbors, even if not fitting into traditional definitions of martyrdom.

“Kendrick courageously threw himself at one of the school shooters without hesitation, allowing other students to follow and subdue the gunman,” DiLoreto explained. His actions, he affirmed, saved countless lives that day.

A Legacy of Faith

Kendrick’s deep faith was evident to those in his parish. He regularly carried a rosary and even had one found on him after his death, which has since been gifted to a classmate. His commitment to volunteer service and attending funerals for strangers to offer prayers for them further illustrates his character. Kendrick openly expressed his desire to be a witness of his faith.

Bishop James Golka of Colorado Springs commended the efforts of those gathering testimony about Kendrick’s life, stating that he seemed to be an exceptional individual whose actions warrant reverence.

Lessons from Tragedy

As America grapples with the ongoing issue of school violence, the example set by Kendrick Castillo offers hope and inspiration. Parishioners and community leaders view his selfless act as a beacon of light amid darkness.

“In the face of increasing persecution, especially in the aftermath of school shootings, the heroic legacy of Kendrick serves as motivation for many,” Father DiLoreto concluded.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.