El Paso Shooting: 20 Dead, Over Two Dozen Injured
UPDATE 08/03/2019 8:15 PM ET: CNN and Fox News report that 20 people have died in the shooting inside an El Paso, Texas Walmart, according to El Paso Police Chief Greg Allen.
Chief Allen was quoted saying about the suspect in custody, “Right now we have a manifesto from this individual that indicates to some degree a nexus to a potential hate crime.” However, further investigation needed to be done to fully determine whether or not this shooting was a hate crime, according to FBI El Paso Special Agent in Charge Emmerson Buie.
UPDATE 08/03/2019 6:30 PM ET: NBC News reports local law enforcement say at least 19 people have died and 40 were injured in the shooting inside an El Paso, Texas Walmart.
One suspect, Patrick Crusius, 21, was taken into police custody. Another suspect was taken into custody, but their role in the shooting is not yet known.
ORIGINAL STORY
A shooting this afternoon in El Paso, Texas has resulted in multiple fatalities and three suspects in the custody of local law enforcement.
Per the El Paso Times, El Paso Police say there were multiple shooters at a local Walmart. Police are also inspecting another scene at a nearby mall.
Multiple fatalities have resulted from the shooting, but there has been no confirmation on the exact number from local police or other officials. Three suspects have been taken into police custody.
Walmart released the following statement via Twitter: “We’re in shock over the tragic events at Cielo Vista Mall in El Paso, where store 2201 & club 6502 are located. We’re praying for the victims, the community & our associates, as well as the first responders. We’re working closely with law enforcement & will update as appropriate.”
We're in shock over the tragic events at Cielo Vista Mall in El Paso, where store 2201 & club 6502 are located. We’re praying for the victims, the community & our associates, as well as the first responders. We’re working closely with law enforcement & will update as appropriate.
— Walmart (@Walmart) August 3, 2019
Texas Governor Greg Abbott emailed the following statement to the El Paso Times:
“Today, the El Paso community was struck by a heinous and senseless act of violence. Our hearts go out to the victims of this horrific shooting and to the entire community in this time of loss. While no words can provide the solace needed for those impacted by this event, I ask that all Texans join Cecilia and me in offering our prayers for the victims and their families. The state of Texas and the Department of Public Safety are assisting the El Paso Police Department as they conduct their investigation. We have deployed troopers, special agents, Texas Rangers, tactical teams, and aircraft to the scene in a support role. The state of Texas will do everything it can to ensure justice is delivered to the perpetrators of this heinous act.”
