Tragic Shooting Claims Life of Oregon High School Staff Member Cameron Pasley; Suspect in Custody
MT. MORRIS, IL — A quiet community in Ogle County is reeling after the tragic death of 25-year-old Cameron Pasley, a beloved member of the Oregon High School staff, who was fatally shot on Sunday evening in an incident that has left teachers, students, and local residents in mourning.
Deputies with the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office responded to a distress call at the Mt. Morris Estates Apartments on April 21. The emergency led them to Apartment 13, where they discovered Pasley critically wounded, having sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Despite immediate efforts to save him, Pasley was later pronounced dead at Saint Katharine Hospital.
According to authorities, the suspected shooter, Derek Swanlund, 44, was taken into custody shortly after the incident, arrested not far from the residence. Charges are pending as the investigation continues, and officials have not yet released a motive for the shooting.
A Shock to the School Community
Pasley, a young staff member at Oregon High School, was described by colleagues and students as kind, energetic, and deeply committed to helping others. He worked closely with students and was seen as a rising star in the education system. His sudden death has devastated the school district.
“We are heartbroken,” said one Oregon High School administrator. “Cameron was more than a colleague—he was a friend, a mentor to students, and a vital part of our school community. Our hearts go out to his family and all who knew and loved him.”
Grief counselors were dispatched to Oregon High School on Monday to support students and staff processing the tragic loss.
The Ongoing Investigation
The Ogle County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that Swanlund is in custody and cooperating with investigators. Deputies responded to the scene around 9 p.m., where residents of the Mt. Morris Estates complex reported hearing gunfire. Multiple units were quickly deployed, and within a short span of time, Swanlund was apprehended without further incident.
While the motive behind the shooting remains unclear, investigators have not ruled out the possibility of a personal dispute between the victim and the suspect. Authorities continue to interview witnesses and gather evidence to better understand the circumstances leading up to the deadly encounter.
Community Response
The Mt. Morris and Oregon communities have begun mourning in solidarity. Vigils are being planned, and the school district is working to find meaningful ways to honor Cameron Pasley’s memory.
Local officials have emphasized the importance of mental health resources and community outreach during this difficult time. “This tragedy has shaken us all,” said a representative of the Mt. Morris Village Board. “Now more than ever, we must come together and support one another.”
About the Suspect
Not much is publicly known about Derek Swanlund, the alleged shooter. Public records show that he has had minor run-ins with the law in the past, but nothing that indicated a potential for lethal violence. Authorities are expected to release more information in the coming days as they continue to piece together the timeline and motive behind the crime.
Final Thoughts
Cameron Pasley’s death is a heartbreaking reminder of the fragility of life and the unforeseen violence that can upend entire communities. As Oregon High School prepares to move forward without one of its most promising young staff members, friends, family, and students are left to grieve a life taken far too soon.
A memorial service is expected to be announced later this week.