Multiple deaths in shooting at Baptist church in south Texas

The Guardian -- A Baptist church in Sutherland Springs, Texas was the sight of a major mass shooting on Sunday morning after a man walked into the church and opened fire, leaving multiple worshippers dead and many more injured.

It was not immediately known how many people were killed and wounded at First Baptist church in the small town 30 miles south-east of San Antonio, or who carried out the attack. The Wilson County News reported that Wilson County’s sheriff, Joe Tackitt, said the shooter had been taken down.

The sheriff of neighbouring Guadalupe County, Arnold Zwicke, told CNN there was a single suspect who was killed after a brief pursuit as he tried to flee. It was not clear if the suspect took his own life or was brought down by law enforcers.

Donald Trump, who is on a five-country tour in Asia, tweeted: “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.”

In a statement, Texas governor Greg Abbott said: “While the details of this horrific act are still under investigation, Cecilia and I want to send our sincerest thoughts and prayers to all those who have been affected by this evil act. I want to thank law enforcement for their response and ask that all Texans pray for the Sutherland Springs community during this time of mourning and loss.”