The police in Colorado have identified Samuel Knopp, 24, and Celie Rain Montgomery, 26, as the two individuals fatally shot and found in a dormitory at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. Despite ongoing efforts to locate a suspect, law enforcement has not released any names. However, they believe that the victims were acquainted with the shooter. Emphasizing that the incident appears isolated and not a random attack against the university or its students, the police have based their statement on investigative findings. Although the El Paso County coroner's office autopsy confirmed the identities, the precise cause and manner of death have yet to be disclosed by authorities.

Samuel Knopp

Knopp, hailing from Parker, a town situated approximately 60 miles north of the campus, was one of the individuals involved in the tragic incident.

Knopp, a student at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, hailed from Parker, a town located approximately 60 miles north of the campus. Following the shooting, Knopp's mother took to Facebook to express her frustration with gun violence and the need for stricter firearm regulations, unaware of her son's fate at the time. Her post, timestamped at 7:46 a.m., emphasized the urgency for action to ensure safety in various public spaces. By evening, condolences replaced comments supporting her stance.

In a statement, the university's chancellor revealed that Knopp was a senior majoring in music and described him as a cherished member of the Visual and Performing Arts department. Chancellor Jennifer Sobanet highlighted Knopp's musical talent and mentioned his proficiency as a guitarist. Additionally, a video shared on the UCCS Music Program YouTube page showcased Knopp performing at his junior year recital, displaying his musical skills against the backdrop of an urban skyline.

At times, Knopp also showcased his musical prowess through solo performances, seamlessly transitioning from playing acoustic guitar to electric guitar.

Celie Rain Montgomery

Less information is currently available regarding the other victim of the shooting, Montgomery. Officials have clarified that she was not enrolled as a student at the university.

According to her LinkedIn page, Montgomery worked as a health and wellness copywriter. Additionally, her rarely used X account describes her as a "Health & Wellness Copywriter, mom, and lifelong learner/researcher."

Chancellor Jennifer Sobanet also honored Montgomery in her statement, acknowledging her presence in the campus community despite not being a student.

As a response to the tragic event, classes on campus were canceled on Monday, and a "healing walk" was scheduled for the afternoon.