Authorities in Virginia say a recently fired city employee killed 12 and injured four others in a workplace shooting on Friday afternoon.
According to WAVY, the mass shooting occurred at the Virginia Beach Municipal Center. Police say the gunman is also dead.
A responding police officer was also reportedly shot but not seriously injured thanks to his protective vest.
Six individuals were transported from the scene to area hospitals and early reports indicated one of the victims was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital.
“This is not a drill,” the shooter reportedly yelled upon entering the building.
Reports indicate he had been fired from his position with the city’s public works department on Thursday.
Police initially said the suspect is believed to have legally purchased the two firearms — a rifle and a pistol — that he allegedly used in the massacre, as reported by CNN.
Gov. Ralph Northam was en route to the community a short time after the shooting and issued a statement expressing his dismay over the “unspeakable, senseless violence” that left so many dead.
“This is a horrific day for the Commonwealth of Virginia,” the governor said. “We are devastated by the tragic shooting in Virginia Beach. I am in Virginia Beach with law enforcement authorities and Mayor [Bobby] Dyer, where I am monitoring the situation and offer the state’s fully support.”
[Featured image: video screenshot]
