December 24, 2024 11:13 AM

Sikh Temple Shooting Leaves Seven Dead, Police Still Searching for Answers

In a tragic event, seven people have been shot and killed at a Sikh Temple in Oak Creek, Wisconsin Sunday.

Police have not given full details on the identity of the shooter, who was killed, or released details of victims but police have called the shooting an act of domestic terrorism.

Police have also revealed that the suspect was killed outside of the temple in a shootout with police officers and he has been described as a white man in his 40s.

Nothing has been revealed as of what his motives were, or whether it was religiously or racially targeted.

Sources told ABC News that the shooting was the work of a "white supremacist" or "skinhead." In addition to the seven people killed, three people--two adults and one police officer---are in critical condition and being treated at the local hospital.

The gunman, was shot and killed in a shooting with a police officer outside the temple. Oak Creek Police Chief John Edwards said to reporters, "The officer stopped a tragic event that could've been a lot worse."

Devendar Nagra, 48, told the Associated Press, "We never thought this could happen to our community. We never did anything wrong to anyone." Nagra's sister escaped by hiding as the gunman fired into the temple's kitchen.

FBI Milwaukee Special Agent in Charge Teresa Carlson said in a statement, "This remains an active investigation in its early stages. While the FBI is investigating whether this matter might be an act of domestic terrorism, no motive has been determined at this time. We know our community has been deeply impacted by this incident, and our thoughts are with those affected and particularly with the officer who was wounded in the line of duty to protect others."

Edwards said that 911 calls started coming in from the temple at 10:25 a.m.

President Obama said in a statement that he was "deeply saddened" by the incident and "our hearts go out to the families and friends of those who were killed and wounded,. As we mourn this loss which took place at a house of worship, we are reminded how much our country has been enriched by Sikhs, who are a part of our broader American family."

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