Police have apprehended the alleged gunman.
Annapolis, Md (KM) Five people were shot and killed at the Capital Gazette newspaper in Annapolis on Thursday, and several others were “gravely injured.” That’s according to Anne Arundel County police who have also apprehended a suspect.
The Associated Press reports the shootings took place at the newspaper’s offices, where there was a presence of police officers and fire and rescue personnel and apparatus. TV stations who reported from the scene broadcast images of people leaving the building with their hands up, as officers urged them to leave through a parking lot.
Police converged on the building and took the suspect into custody.
During an evening news conference, Lt. Ryan Fraeshure with Anne Arundel County Police identified the deceased as Wendi Winters, the special publications editor; John McNamara, a writer; Gerald Fischman, the editorial page editor; Rebecca Smith, a sales assistant; and Rob Hiaasen, an assistant editor and columnist.
The alleged shooter has been identified as Jarrod W. Ramos. Police say the suspect entered the building in a targeted attack, and “looked for his victims,” according to a report from the AP. Acting Police Chief William Krampf said the shooter used smoke grenades when he entered the building. No motive for the shooting has been determined by investigators.
Police also told reporters Thursday afternoon that the Capital Gazette has experienced “general threats.” Acting Chief Krampf says these threats were received on social media.
Meanwhile, staff at the Capital Gazette say they are working to cover the shooting at their offices with the assistance of the Baltimore Sun. Both papers are owned by the same company. They also say they will put out a Friday edition.
The Associated Press has also said it will provide assistance to the Capital Gazette.
By Kevin McManus