A gunman released tear gas on a move theater audience in Aurora, Colorado during a midnight screening of The Dark Knight Rises last night, before opening fire, killing 12 and wounding at least 38.
Police arrested James Holmes, 24, the man believed to be responsible for the horrific incident, in a parking lot behind the theater.
In response, Warner Bros. has cancelled a red carpet event scheduled this evening in Paris, and released the following statement:
"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."
President Obama released a statement telling citizens of Aurora, “We will do everything that we can to support the people of Aurora in this extraordinarily difficult time. As we do when confronted by moments of darkness and challenge, we must now come together as one American family.”
The following is a video of the 911 calls placed during the shooting. Warning: They are disturbing in nature.
Cities around the country are taking added precautions in response to the tragedy. The NYPD released the following statement:
"As a precaution against copycats and to raise the comfort levels among movie patrons in the wake of the horrendous shooting in Colorado, the New York City Police Department is providing coverage at theaters where the The Dark Knight Rises is playing in the five boroughs."
We are truly disheartened by these events, and our thoughts go out to the victims and their loved ones. We will continue to update you on this story as it unfolds.