Tu Dec 02, 2003 10:18 AM MDT

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At only 17-years-old, Masha Cermak, a Russian immigrant, killed one and critically injured another before committing suicide with a shotgun.

Photo of Masha Cermak From 2002 Slideshow: Shooting Aftermath (GRAPHIC)

According to those closest to her, she was suffering from depression and PTSD along with an addiction to painkillers. Shortly before the incident took place, she was reported to be acting unusual. One individual recalled being given a bag of journals before Cermak apologizing and running away.

"She wasn't her usual self that day. She was quieter and apologetic -- which isn't like her at all. We hung out and everything was somewhat normal for a bit before she told me that she would be away for a while. She gave me a bag with, uh, these books. Told me they were important and don't lose them. Now--she's dead."
-Recalled by a close friend of Cermak's

The teenage girl was well liked by many and had several people who were close to her before words started to circulate among her friend groups, allegedly coming from her older sister. The 17-year old often spoke negatively about her older sister.

"It wasn't like normal sibling stuff. Came over once and her (Masha) tone changed when she entered the room. I think her name was "Christina". -Recalled by ex partner

The aftermath of it all leaves a lot of people divided. Those who condemmed her actions and the smaller minority that justified them. Wallace Dillon, a friend of Cermak's, justified her actions as a reaction from years of torment at the hands of her older sister.

November 1st, 2003 was when a swarm of calls alerted the authorities after witnessing a 1989 Toyota Corolla driving erratically. The car was reportedly stolen after Cermak held the driver at gunpoint and fatally injuring the individual.

Masha went home and waited an hour before commiting her next and final act. Catherine Cermak (older sister) was critically injured sustaining wounds to her shoulder and neck. Catherine is currently recovering from her injuries in the hospital.

Detectives have recovered 4 VHS tapes containing 10 minute recordings on each of them. All detailing her life and what led up to doing what she did along with her death.

The last tape was recovered from the camcorder and is currently in possession of the local authorities.

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