The gunman fled the church in a vehicle after the shooting and was also killed, either by a self-inflicted wound or during a confrontation with police, said the official who was briefed on the investigation.
SUTHERLAND SPRINGS, TX – At least 26 pepole have been killed in a shooting that took place inside of a Wilson County church during Sunday service, just 40 miles southeast of San Antonio.
KENS 5 confirmed at the scene that some of those casualties included children.
A DPS official said at a news conference that 23 people died in the church. Two others died outside the church, and one more has died at the hospital.
The shooter has been identified as Devin Kelley of New Braunfels, the Associated Press reported.
« We are dealing with the largest mass shooting in our state’s history, » Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said. « There are so many families that have lost family members. The tragedy is worsened that it happened in a church, a place of worship. »
« We mourn their loss, but we support their family members. »
Sherri Pomeroy, the wife of First Baptist Pastor Frank Pomeroy, told the Associated Press in a text message that their 14-year-old daughter was one of the victims.
The gunman fled the church in a vehicle after the shooting and was also killed, either by a self-inflicted wound or during a confrontation with police, said the official who was briefed on the investigation.
« We appreciate the first responders, » Abbott said. « They are continuing in their efforts as they put the pieces of this puzzle together. »
Wilson County Sheriff Joe Tackitt said the gunman walked into First Baptist Church and began firing during a Sunday service.
Between 10 to 15 people were also injured, according to the official, who stressed that the figures could change.
University Hospital in San Antonio has nine patients seeking care, KENS has confirmed.
Tell your friends and neighbors that you support them and will work with them. »
President Donald Trump tweeted from Japan that he is monitoring the situation. Trump tweeted: « May God be w/ the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas. »
May God be w/ the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas. The FBI & law enforcement are on the scene. I am monitoring the situation from Japan.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott called the shooting an « evil act. » Abbott tweeted: « Our prayers are with all who were harmed by this evil act. » He said he is on his way to Sutherland Springs to meet with families, local, state and federal officials.
Our prayers are with all who were harmed by this evil act. Our thanks to law enforcement for their response. More details from DPS soon. https://t.co/KMCRmOPkiM
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