At Least 50 Killed and 200 Injured in Las Vegas Shooting

Last night, a gunman firing from a Las Vegas hotel inflicted massive casualties on a crowd at the Route 91 Harvest Festival. While much about the attack is still unclear, several news outlets have released details concerning the shooting, including the name of the man responsible. Here is what we know so far,

What Happened?

According to CNN, the attack occurred just after 10pm on Sunday at the Route 91 Harvest Festival in Las Vegas. Route 91 is a three-day country music event featuring a number of prominent entertainers and regularly draws large crowds. Singer Jason Aldean had just taken the stage when the performance was interrupted by the sound of gunfire. Police say the gunman fired on the crowd of about 30,000 people from the 32^nd floor of the Mandalay Bay hotel. At least 50 people are reported dead with some 200 injured, making this the deadliest mass shooting in US history. While Jason Aldean appears to be unharmed, two Las Vegas police officers were listed among the casualties.

Who is Responsible?

The New York Times reports the gunman was eventually cornered by SWAT units and killed. He has been identified as 64-year-old Stephen Paddock, a local resident of the area. While police are confident there are no additional shooters, they were seeking a “companion” named Marilou Danley. As of this morning, she appears to have been located. No motive has yet been given for the attack, but authorities do not believe it was connected with international terrorism.

The Aftermath

As stated earlier, at least 50 people are reported dead with some 200 injured. Much of the strip has been shut down and several hospitals (such as University Medical Center) are at capacity. Las Vegas Airport has diverted over two dozen flights due to the shooting, and travelers have been urged to remain calm and check their airlines status.

Donald Trump expressed his condolences to the victims over twitter,

My warmest condolences and sympathies to the victims and families of the terrible Las Vegas shooting. God bless you!

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 2, 2017

Meanwhile, Christian leaders have taken to social media and urged prayer for the people of Nevada,

The reports from Las Vegas are horrifying. Praying for the victims, the city, and for those who will minister in the aftermath.

— Russell Moore (@drmoore) October 2, 2017

My heart is torn in two at the news of yet another mass shooting. Offering prayers is not enough, but it is a good place to start.

— Jonathan Merritt (@JonathanMerritt) October 2, 2017

Oh Las Vegas. We are sorrowing & praying for you. Psalm 7:9 echoes from my morning reading: "Oh, let the evil of the wicked come to an end."

— Beth Moore (@BethMooreLPM) October 2, 2017

For more on the events unfolding in Neveda, be sure to follow our latest reports at ChristianHeadlines. Please pray for the people of Las Vegas.

*Ryan Duncan is an Editor for Crosswalk.com

(Image Credit:Crosswalk.com)

*Published 10/2/2017