Cho 'Would Have Been Awfully Difficult to Stop,' Panel Chief Says

"He was just another student," he said.

The eight-member panel met at the University of Virginia along with lawyers and staff, reviewing the draft report and ensuring that it would meet legal standards and would have the "right tone," Massengill said.

Members, including law enforcement and higher education experts, closed the meeting to review private academic, mental health and criminal investigatory records.

"All we can tell you is everyone is engaged,'' said member Tom Ridge, the former governor of Pennsylvania and former Homeland Security secretary. He called the group's discussion "provocative in the best sense."

Other members declined to comment, referring questions to the chairman.

"This report is going to have plenty of details that will address issues and concerns," Massengill said.

The panel, appointed by Kaine shortly after the shootings, has reviewed information including the timeline of the shootings, Cho's mental health and background, and educational laws and policies. Cho's family cooperated with the panel.

Members have held four public hearings.

"There are loads of important issues that need to be discussed," said Philip S. Schaenman, the panel's staff director. "Things of national importance."

Virginia Tech officials are looking to the report to better guide schools on dealing with students like Cho.

The university is also conducting an investigation, and the Virginia State Police are leading a criminal inquiry.

Staff writer Tim Craig contributed to this report.