Michael J. Mike Suchar, 56, was one of two school employees killed when a 16-year-old opened fire on Grover Cleveland Elementary School in San Diego on January 29, 1979. Suchar was the head custodian and was mortally wounded while attempting to protect students; the school principal, Burton Wragg, was also killed. The shooter fired from a house across the street with a .22-caliber rifle, injuring eight children and a police officer as well as killing the two men.

The shooter, Brenda Ann Spencer, was taken into custody the same day and was charged with two counts of murder and multiple counts of assault with a deadly weapon. She pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 25 years to life. The attack drew national attention because of the perpetrator’s age and the circumstances, and it prompted memorials for the victims and discussion of school safety, juvenile crime, gun control and mental health.

If anyone knew Mike Suchar, his work at the school, or was at Grover Cleveland Elementary that day, please share what you remember.