Maryland Shooting: Five dead in 'targeted-attack' on US newspaper office
Five people were killed when a gunman opened fire in a 'targeted attack' at a newspaper office in Maryland, US. Media reports have identified the suspect. He has been nabbed, as Jarrod Ramos, who unsuccessfully tried to sue the Capital Gazette for defamation. Staff-members said they were "devastated" by the attack on the "family," while CNN termed it the "deadliest day for journalism."
The gunman 'looked for his victims as he walked through'
Describing the 'targeted attack,' William Krampf, Deputy Chief, Anne Arundel County Police, said the gunman "entered the building with a shotgun and looked for his victims as he walked through the lower level." Four people died on the spot, while one succumbed after reaching the hospital. Police found and destroyed at least one smoke bomb, Krampf confirmed. More than 170 people were evacuated safely.
'Nothing more terrifying'
Suspect had a "long-running feud" with The Capital
County Executive Steve Schuh said the suspect was hiding under a desk when the cops arrived "within minutes" of receiving news. There was "no exchange of fire," he added. Later, police gathered outside Ramos' house, who's had a run-in with The Capital (run by the Capital Gazette) since 2011, when they ran a report on a criminal harassment case against him.
'Thoughts, prayers for comfort to the friends, family & colleagues'
Despite trauma, staff vows to put out an edition today
The victims have been identified as John McNamara, Staff Writer; Gerald Fischman, Editorial Page Editor; Robert Hiaasen, Assistant Editor (News); Rebecca Smith, Sales Assistant; and Wendi Winters, Special Publications. Phil Davis, a reporter, described the experience as being "like a war zone." Jimmy DeButts, Capital Gazette Editor, tweeted that he was "heartbroken." But the staff has vowed to put out an edition today.
2015 Charlie Hebdo attack "the most comparable event"
Joel Simon, Executive Director, Committee to Protect Journalists, said the 2015 Charlie Hebdo attack, which killed 12 people, is the "most comparable event" to this incident. The "deadliest day for journalists" globally was on November 23, 2009, when "29 journalists and two media support workers were ambushed and brutally slain" in a "politically motivated ambush" in the Philippines.
'We can't accept this. It must end'
Shooter "indicated violence" through social media threats: Police
Police have now revealed the shooter "indicated violence" through social media threats before the attack. But they have not released his name "due to investigative reasons." He is now being questioned. Police haven't confirmed a motive. The Capital Gazette publishes several local newspapers, including The Capital, whose history dates back to 1884. It is owned by the Baltimore Sun Media Group.
