SUTHERLAND SPRINGS, Texas — 26 people were killed on Sunday after a gunman walked into a Baptist church in Texas and began firing.
According to reports, a man now identified as Devin Kelley, 26, walked into First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs at approximately 11:20 a.m. and opened fire on the 50-member congregation. He was dressed in all black, and was wearing tactical gear.
26 people have now died from their injuries, with another 20 hospitalized. Among those killed was the 14-year-old daughter of pastor Frank Pomeroy, who was not present this morning. The youngest victim was five years old.
“My dad saw the gunman run into the church building and then he heard shots and saw people running,” local resident David Flores, 26, told CNN. “People covered in blood and screaming. It was pandemonium everywhere.”
A local resident engaged Kelley outside of the church with a rifle, causing the gunman to flee. He was later found deceased in his vehicle in nearby Guadalupe County.
The FBI and Texas Rangers are currently investigating the situation, and according to Fox 5 News, authorities are working on removing the bodies.
“There are no words to describe the pure evil that we witnessed in Sutherland Springs today,” Gov. Greg Abbott said during a press conference Sunday evening. “Our hearts are heavy at the anguish in this small town, but in time of tragedy, we see the very best of Texas. May God comfort those who’ve lost a loved one, and may God heal the hurt in our communities.”
This is a breaking news story. Please keep checking back for updates.
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