Columbine Principal Reflects on the 1999 Shooting Massacre and How His Faith Saved Him

Frank DeAngelis, former principal of Columbine High School, recently discussed the moments leading up to the horrific 1999 high school shooting in Columbine, Colorado, and how he’s dealt with survivor’s guilt in an exclusive interview on the Eyewitness History podcast. 

DeAngelis, a lifelong educator and community leader, redirected students to bring them to safety during the massacre that claimed 15 lives (including both perpetrators) and has been using his platform to advocate for school safety, resiliency, and recovery ever since. 

“I can remember the night [of the shooting] sitting at my brother's house and I was angry at God. I said, ‘God, how could you possibly allow this to happen? These are innocent kids,’” DeAngelis said. 

Days following the shooting, DeAngelis attended a candlelight prayer vigil hosted at his local church that changed his life. 

Hear the inspiring words DeAngelis’ priest shared that restored his faith and gave him the encouragement he needed to share his story:

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