Texas shooting – what happened in Odessa and how many people died?
A GUNMAN opened fire “at random” in Texas on the night of August 31.
A 17-month-old baby was among the victims of the horrific shooting – but what happened and how many people lost their lives? Here’s everything we know.
What happened?
In a shock attack, gunman hijacked a US Postal Service van and began firing at random in the area of Odessa and Midland – hitting multiple people.
Police sources told News West 9 the shooting was “planned by a group” – although the motive remains unknown.
The attack started just after 3:15pm local time (9:15pm BST) on Interstate 20 and Highway 191, which connects Midland to Odessa.
It began with a traffic stop where gunfire was exchanged with police – setting off a series of chaotic events, including the injuring of three officers attempting to stop the gunman.
After a high-speed police chase, the suspect crashed into a stationary vehicle behind the Odessa Cinergy multiplex complex.
He was eventually shot dead in front of panicked bank holiday weekend shoppers.
Mobile phone footage later showed people running out of the movie theatre and screaming in horror as the terrifying events unfolded.
How many people died?
At least five people were killed and 21 injured as well as three police officers.
Police initially feared more than one shooter was at large – but later confirmed a lone gunman had been shot and killed.
The Medical Center Hospital in Odessa took in 13 victims, including one who died, the hospital’s director, Russell Tippin, said.
He added: “Grab onto your loved ones, pray for this town, stop and give your prayers for the victims.”
US President Donald Trump tweeted: “Just briefed by Attorney General Barr about the shootings in Texas.
“FBI and Law Enforcement is fully engaged. More to follow.”
Vice President Mike Pence later said that President Trump is “absolutely determined” to work with lawmakers to “confront this scourge of mass atrocities in our country.”
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