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Marysville school shooter arranged to have victims meet him at lunch

EVERETT, Wash. — Investigators said the boy who opened fire on five students Friday, including two of his cousins, arranged to have the victims meet him at lunch.

Investigators with the Snohomish County Multiple Agency Response Team released a few additional details in the investigation into the shooting at Marysville-Pilchuck High School Monday.

Detectives said the gunman, 14-year-old Jaylen Fryberg, texted his friends to have them meet him at lunch in the cafeteria.  A witness confirmed that the five victims were seated at the table when Fryberg opened fire, striking them before turning the gun on himself.

Investigators continue to go through phone records.

Zoe Galasso and Gia Soriano, both 14, died from gunshot wounds. Shaylee Chuckulnaskit, 14, is in critical condition at Providence Medical Center. Andrew Fryberg 15, is in critical condition at Harborview. Nate Hatch, 14, was upgraded to satisfactory condition. Monday he sent out a tweet , “Greatful to be alive." On Sunday night he wrote a tweet about the shooter, his cousin, Jaylen Fryberg, “I love you and I forgive you Jaylen rest in peace."

Authorities said the handgun, a .40-caliber Beretta, was purchased legally, registered, and owned by a family member of the gunman.  Police are still investigating how the gunman obtained the handgun before the shooting.

Police also said the first-year teacher attributed with confronting Fryberg did not have physical contact with him during the shooting.

SMART investigators said they will continue to gather and review hundreds of witness statements, conduct in-person interviews, gather evidence, track down additional witnesses and compile a comprehensive report.

The investigation is expected to last several months.

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