The Shooter
Several SWAT teams were sent to the hotel immediately after the first reports of the shooting at 10:08 p.m., and officers overheard on police radio reported being pinned down by gunfire. Shortly before midnight the Las Vegas police reported that “one suspect is down,” and soon thereafter the police said they did not believe there were any more active gunmen.
Authorities have identified the suspected gunman in the Sunday night shooting as Stephen Paddock. Clark County Sheriff Joseph Lombardo said officers confronted Paddock on the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino. It is assumed that Paddock committed suicide as he was found dead.
Eric Paddock, a brother of Stephen Paddock who lives in Orlando, Fla., told the Orlando Sentinel that he had made a statement to the police. “We are completely dumbfounded,” he said. “We can’t understand what happened.”
What Happened at The Airport
It was said by an official with McCarran International Airport that “an airport perimeter fence near the concert venue was breached by people fleeing the scene of the incident.” Flights at the McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas were delayed due to the incident. Airport staff responded and have transported those people to the designated evacuation site and the fence has sense been secured.
The Community Comments
Jason Aldean wrote on Instagram, “Tonight has been beyond horrific. I still dont know what to say but wanted to let everyone know that Me and my Crew are safe. My Thoughts and prayers go out to everyone involved tonight. It hurts my heart that this would happen to anyone who was just coming out to enjoy what should have been a fun night.”
President Trump issued a statement on Twitter on Monday. He extended sympathy to the victims and their families. “My warmest condolences and sympathies to the victims and families of the terrible Las Vegas shooting. God bless you!”
Mandalay Bay Resort tweeted, “Our thoughts & prayers are with the victims of last night’s tragic events. We’re grateful for the immediate actions of our first responders.”
Nevada Gov. Brian Sandoval tweeted, “A tragic & heinous act of violence has shaken the #Nevada family. Our prayers are w/ the victims & all affected by this act of cowardice.”
Our hearts and prayers are with the victims and their families during this intense time of need. May they gain the solace they deserve during this crucial time.
