Texas mass shooting: 5 dead, 21 injured in West Texas
At least five people have been killed and 21 injured in a mass shooting in the state of Texas in the US. The incident took place near the twin cities of Midland and Odessa in West Texas. The suspect shot at a number of passers-by from his car first and then from a hijacked postal truck; he's been shot dead by cops. Here's more.
Shooter identified as a white male in his 30s
Odessa Police Chief Michael Gerke said at least three law enforcement officers were also shot. The shooter was identified as a white male in his 30s. However, his name and motive were not revealed. This is the second mass shooting incident in Texas in August. Earlier, on August 3, 22 people were killed and 24 injured at a Walmart store in El Paso.
The attack began with a traffic stop: Gerke
"We have at least 21 victims, 21 shooting victims and at least five deceased...," Gerke said at a news conference. The shooting began when the attacker was pulled over at a traffic stop on Interstate 20 by a Department of Public Safety officer, the Odessa Police Chief said. The gunman shot at the officer and continued shooting others before hijacking a postal truck.
Authorities urge people to avoid major highways in the area
Odessa Police initially reported there could be more than one attacker. However, Gerke later said authorities believe there was only one shooter. The suspect was reportedly killed in an exchange of fire near Cinergy movie theater in Odessa. Gerke said they believe the threat is over, adding that authorities remain vigilant. Authorities urged people to avoid major highways, including Interstate 20, in the area.
Heartbroken over this senseless and cowardly attack: Texas Governor
Texas Governor Greg Abbott in a statement on Twitter said, "The first lady and I are heartbroken over this senseless and cowardly attack, and we offer our unwavering support to the victims, their families, and all the people of Midland and Odessa."
A statement issued by Governor Abbott on Odessa shooting
FBI and law enforcement fully engaged: President Trump
Meanwhile, White House Press Secretary Stephanie Grisham said that President Donald Trump has been briefed on the latest mass shooting in West Texas. She also said that the situation is being monitored by the White House. "Just briefed by Attorney General Barr about the shootings in Texas. FBI and law enforcement is fully engaged. More to follow," Trump tweeted.
