The scene of Saturday’s mass shooting. (CNN Graphic)
PITTSBURGH, Pa. (CNN) — Authorities responded to a mass shooting Saturday morning near the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh, according to Allegheny County Sheriff’s Deputy Kevin Kraus.
Four police officers have been shot and there are fatalities, officials said. They said the shooter, identified as 46-year-old Robert Bowers, had surrendered.
Police said 11 were dead and six people suffered gunshot wounds.
“There are fatalities,” said Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald.
Pittsburgh police Cmdr. Jason Lando there were “multiple casualties.” Officers were dispatched to the scene after receiving reports of active gunfire at the synagogue, he said.
The Tree of Life synagogue is a conservative Jewish congregation, according to its website. It’s in Squirrel Hill, a historic, Jewish neighborhood.
The synagogue has a Shabbat service at 9:45 a.m. Saturdays, the website said.
President Donald Trump tweeted he was aware of the situation in Pittsburgh and that law enforcement was on the scene.
“People in Squirrel Hill area should remain sheltered,” Trump said. “Looks like multiple fatalities. Beware of active shooter. God Bless All!”
Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf said on Twitter that it was a “serious situation,” and the state police were helping local first responders.
