At least 12 people were shot — including three police officers — and eight have been killed in a shooting at The Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on Saturday morning.
The suspect — a “heavy-set white male with a beard,” according to initial reports, is being identified as 46-year-old Robert Bowers of Pittsburgh. He’s now in custody after he surrendered, though Bowers was initially armed with an AR-15-style rifle and multiple handguns.
Sources told KDKA that Bowers walked into the building yelling, “All Jews must die.” The Synagogue was reportedly full of people for Shabbat services. VICE News reported that the area, Squirrel Hill, is “known for having a large Jewish community.”
Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf issued a lengthy statement on Saturday following the shooting:
“The shooting in Pittsburgh this morning is an absolute tragedy. I have spoken with local leaders and my administration and the Pennsylvania State Police will provide any resources to assist local law enforcement and first responders.
These senseless acts of violence are not who we are as Americans. My thoughts right now are focused on the victims, their families and making sure law enforcement has every resource they need.
We must all pray and hope for no more loss of life. But we have been saying ‘this one is too many’ for far too long. Dangerous weapons are putting our citizens in harm’s way.
And in the aftermath of this tragedy, we must come together and take action to prevent these tragedies in the future. We cannot accept this violence as normal.
Residents of the area are still being encouraged to stay in their houses.”
President Trump also spoke out about the shooting.
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
Events in Pittsburgh are far more devastating than originally thought. Spoke with Mayor and Governor to inform them that the Federal Government has been, and will be, with them all the way. I will speak to the media shortly and make further statement at Future Farmers of America.
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 27, 2018
Pittsburgh police commander Jason Lando urged nearby residents to stay in their homes.