Google MapsA gunman has opened fire at people inside a synagogue in Pittsburgh, America.
According to reports, there are multiple casualties inside the building. Emergency services arrived at the scene at around 10am local time.
The incident took place at the Tree of Life Congregation Synagogue, in Pittsburgh’s Squirrel Hill neighbourhood. A service was taking place at the time.
A spokesperson for Pittsburgh police, Jason Lando, said:
We’re working the situation. It is imperative that the neighbours in the community surrounding the Tree of Life Synagogue stay in their houses and shelter in place. Do not come out of your home right now. It is not safe.
#BreakingNews Reports of an active shooter in a synagogue in Squirrel Hill. Huge police presence pic.twitter.com/vodOAuEBsu
— Lori Houy (@WPXI_Lori) October 27, 2018
According to police radio, the gunman has surrendered and is now in police custody, as per BBC.
Reports state the gunman was a heavy-set, white male with a beard.
President Trump has tweeted:
Watching the events unfolding in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Law enforcement on the scene. People in Squirrel Hill area should remain sheltered. Looks like multiple fatalities. Beware of active shooter. God Bless All!
Watching the events unfolding in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Law enforcement on the scene. People in Squirrel Hill area should remain sheltered. Looks like multiple fatalities. Beware of active shooter. God Bless All!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 27, 2018
According to CBS Pittsburgh, eight people have been killed and a number of others injured.
When police arrived on scene, the gunman opened fire on them, reportedly shooting and injuring three officers.
Police said they had received a number of calls from people who barricaded themselves inside the building.
The shooting comes at a tense time in the US, less than two weeks before the mid-term elections and just days after bombs were sent to a number of high profile critics of Donald Trump. A 56-year-old man, Cesar Sayoc, has been arrested in connection with the bombs.
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