Police and other emergency services in Texas are at the scene of a mass shooting at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, local officials and witnesses say. Numerous people are said to have been killed.
The incident happened at around noon on Sunday when officers were called to reports of an active shooter at the small church. Sutherland Springs, which is a community in Wilson County, is about 28 miles (45 kilometers) southeast of San Antonio.
A large number of emergency services, including multiple medical helicopters, have been called to the scene.
Wilson County Sheriff Joe Tackitt confirmed that multiple people had been killed and others were taken to hospital, but the exact number of casualties was not immediately released. A source told NBC News that the number of dead could be as high as 10 to 15.
The shooter is believed to have been killed, but there was no immediate word on his or her identity. Witnesses said the gunman entered the church and opened fire at worshippers who were gathered inside. The motive is unknown.
“Our prayers are with all who were harmed by this evil act. Our thanks to law enforcement for their response,” Texas Governor Greg Abbott said on Twitter.
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