12 innocent people were killed this morning at a midnight screening of The Dark Knight Rises, when a heavily armed gunman opened fire on the Aurora, Colorado theater. At least 50 others were injured, including a 3-month-old.
Witnesses reported that the gunman, identified as 24-year-old James Holmes, entered the theater through an emergency exit door and threw a smoke bomb into the room before opening fire. People in the audience first thought it was part of the film, but then chaos emerged.
“Witnesses tell us he released some sort of canister. They heard a hissing sound and some gas emerged and the gunman opened fire,” Aurora Police Chief Dan Oates said at a news conference.
The shooter used at least four guns — an “AK type” rifle, a shotgun and two handguns, the federal law enforcement official told CNN.
Holmes was found near a car behind the theater. He surrendered without resistance, police said. No motive has been reported.
Warner Bros. has canceled all interviews related to the movie opening, including the premiere. They released a statement saying, “Warner Bros. is deeply saddened to learn about this shocking incident. We extend our sincere sympathies to the families and loved ones of the victims at this tragic time.”
Photo courtesy ABC News