Survivor of US school shooting found dead in his home
A survivor of a US school shooting has been found dead in his home.
Austin Eubanks, a Colorado man who survived the 1999 Columbine school shooting and later became an advocate for fighting addiction, has died aged 37.
Routt County Coroner Robert Ryg said that Mr Eubanks sadly died overnight at his Steamboat Springs home.
Authorities say that there were no signs of foul play and an autopsy is planned to determine the cause of death.
Mr Eubanks was shot in the hand and knee in the Columbine attack that killed 12 classmates and a teacher, including his best friend.
He became addicted to drugs after taking prescription pain medication while recovering from his injuries.
Later, he worked at an addiction treatment centre and travelled across the US telling his story to highlight the dangers of addiction.
Mr Eubanks’ family says in a statement that he “lost the battle with the very disease he fought so hard to help others face”, KMGH-TV reported.
The family added: “We thank the recovery community for its support.
“As you can imagine, we are beyond shocked and saddened and request that our privacy is respected at this time.”