A gunman who opened fire during a Sunday service at a Texas church has killed at least 27 people. The gunman entered the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs close to midday on Sunday, police official Albert Gamez Jr told CBS News.
“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. He added that shooter is thought to be dead after a car chase ensued.
Approximately 50 people were present at the service, including a number of children. The community, which is 50km southeast of San Antonio, is small and close-knit, with only several hundred residents.
Texas governor Greg Abbott said “our prayers are with all who were harmed by this evil act. Our thanks to law enforcement for their response.”
President Trump, who is currently in Asia, posted a message on Twitter saying “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.”
At this point the gunman’s motives are unknown.