Police Respond To Active Shooting At El Paso Walmart
EL PASO, Texas (CBS News/CBS4) - Multiple victims have been injured at a Walmart in El Paso, Texas. Police responded Saturday to an active shooter in the area of the Cielo Vista Mall.
"Scene is still active," police wrote after 12 p.m., adding, "avoid the area" around Hawkins and Gateway East boulevards.
Scene is still Active. We have multi reports of multiple shooters. Please avoid area police conducting search of a very large area. Media staging will be given when area is secure.
— EL PASO POLICE DEPT (@EPPOLICE) August 3, 2019
Police officials updated the situation before 1 p.m. saying there is no longer an imminent threat to the community. Three people are reportedly in custody, one of them being a male. At least 22 people were sent to the hospital, the youngest being 4 months old.
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HAPPENING NOW: Shooting Situation At Walmart near Cielo Vista Mall in El Paso, TexasHAPPENING NOW: Shooting Situation At Walmart near Cielo Vista Mall in El Paso, Texas
Posted by CBS Denver on Saturday, August 3, 2019
Witness Ray Holgin told CBS News that he was about to go into the Walmart when he heard at least 10 gunshots. He said he thought he saw at least two people with guns. Holgin told CBS News that he saw at least one person, an elderly lady, fall to the ground, but he's not sure if she was shot.
Presidential candidate and former Texas congressman Beto O'Rourke responded to the situation.
Truly heartbreaking. Stay safe, El Paso. Please follow all directions of emergency personnel as we continue to get more updates. https://t.co/BU0AH6Y8Rv
— Beto O'Rourke (@BetoORourke) August 3, 2019
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott also responded to the shooting.
In El Paso, the Texas Dept. of Public Safety is assisting local law enforcement & federal authorities to bring this tragedy to the swiftest & safest possible conclusion.
— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) August 3, 2019
We thank all First Responders for their courageous response & urge all area residents to remain safe. https://t.co/H6UDwu81SY
President Donald Trump offered his condolences and support.
Colorado Gov. Jared Polis shared his thoughts for the shooting victims.
I was saddened to hear of the tragedy in Texas. Together we mourn the victims and extend condolences to the families. May those who are injured heal, may those who bore witness recover from the trauma, and may we as a society learn.
— Jared Polis (@jaredpolis) August 3, 2019