5 dead as gunman opens fire at Fort Lauderdale airport in US
At least five persons have been shot dead and eight others injured when a gunman opened fire at US’ Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport in Florida, the latest mass shooting incident to rock the country.
The 26-year-old suspect, identified as Esteban Santiago, was taken into custody. His motive was not immediately known. A Iraq war veteran, Santiago was discharged from the Alaska Army National Guard last year due to unsatisfactory performance.
Florida’s Broward County Sheriff’s office said five people were dead and eight had been taken to a nearby hospital. The shooting took place yesterday in Terminal 2 in the baggage claim area, outside the TSA checkpoint, police said.
Air Canada and Delta Airlines operate out of Terminal 2. People were corralled onto the tarmac and paramedics were at the scene, police said. All services at the airport have been temporarily suspended, the airport tweeted.
“The President (Barack Obama), on behalf of the American people, extended his sincere condolences to the families and other loved ones of those killed and noted that his thoughts and prayers are with the wounded,” said Ned Price, Spokesman of National Security Council, the White House.
Federal authorities will continue to assist the ongoing investigation into this horrific shooting, Price said. Earlier, Obama spoke by phone with Florida Governor Rick Scott and Broward County Mayor Barbara Sharief following the tragic loss of life in the incident.
“Monitoring the terrible situation in Florida. Just spoke to Governor Scott. Thoughts and prayers for all. Stay safe!,” US President-elect Donald Trump said in a tweet. Hundreds of people were standing on the tarmac as dozens of police cars and ambulances rushed to the scene.
Monitoring the terrible situation in Florida. Just spoke to Governor Scott. Thoughts and prayers for all. Stay safe!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2017