Eight killed in shooting at Pittsburgh synagogue, suspect in police custody

A gunman opened fire at a Jewish synagogue in the US city of Pittsburgh on Saturday, killing at least eight persons and injuring several others including three policemen, local media reports said. Robert Bowers, 46, surrendered after he was injured during an exchange of fire with the police, according to local media reports.

 He is being described as a white male, heavy set, with a beard.He is being questioned and treated at hospital.

FBI agents have reached the 'Tree of Life' Congregation Synagogue at Squirrel Hill area in Pittsburgh, where a large number of people had gathered for a morning service when the shooting took place. Initial reports indicated that this was a hate crime.

According to the local KDKA channel, the gunman walked into the building and yelled, "all Jews must die". White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said President Donald Trump is monitoring the situation.

Watching the events unfolding in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Law enforcement on the scene. People in Squirrel Hill area should remain sheltered. Looks like multiple fatalities. Beware of active shooter. God Bless All!

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 27, 2018

President Donald Trump said he’s been monitoring the shooting. In a tweet, Trump encouraged people to shelter in place and said “looks like multiple fatalities.”

"Monitoring reports of a shooting at Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh. Praying for the fallen, the injured, all the families impacted, and our courageous first responders. God bless them all," Vice President Mike Pence said.

According to Michael Eisenberg, past president of Tree of Life Synagogue the shooting happened during weekly Shabbat services at the Jewish synagogue. At the time, three simultaneous congregation services were taking place.       

Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf described it as a tragedy. "The shooting in Pittsburgh this morning is an absolute tragedy...These senseless acts of violence are not who we are as Americans. My thoughts right now are focused on the victims, their families and making sure law enforcement has every resource they need," he said.       

"We cannot accept this violence as normal," Wolf said.