Texas Church Shooting Leaves Dozens Dead
At least 27 people have died after a gunman opened fire at a church in Texas during Sunday services, state Police say.
The attack happened at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs in Wilson County, Texas.
Police official Albert Gamez Jr confirmed the number of fatalities to CBS News.
The gunman, who is reported to have been killed in the aftermath, entered the church and opened fire at around 11:30 local time (17:30 GMT).
“The details are kind of sketchy but what I know right now, what they’re telling me, like 27 deceased and over 20, 25 injured,” Gamez said.
“They’re talking about the shooter is dead also,” he added.
About 50 people usually attend the service, locals said. Local media outlets reported that children were among the dead.
According to the BBC, the gunman died after a brief car chase into nearby Guadalupe County slightly to the north. It is however unclear if he was killed by police or killed himself.
Governor of Texas, Greg Abbott said, “Our prayers are with all who were harmed by this evil act. Our thanks to law enforcement for their response.”
President DonaldTrump, on a tour of Asia, tweeted, “May God be with the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas. The FBI and law enforcement are on the scene. I am monitoring the situation from Japan.”
