Responses to Aurora, CO Movie Theater Shooting Swift; Questions Linger [UPDATED]
Posted 07.20.12 by reelz
Shooting rampage at midnight screening of The Dark Knight Rises leaves 12 dead, 59 injured.
Hollywood Dailies has further coverage of the event. You can watch the clip after the jump.
Update (1:40pm): Family of Suspect Issues Statement — NBC San Diego reports that the family of shooting suspect James Holmes have released a statement:
Our hearts go out to those who were involved in this tragedy and to the families and friends of those involved. We ask that the media respect our privacy during this difficult time. Our family is cooperating with authorities in both San Diego, California and Aurora, Colorado. We are still trying to process this information and we appreciate that people will respect our privacy.
Update (1:04pm): Aurora Police Chief Issues Statement — Aurora Police Chief Daniel Oates indicated that a total of 71 people had been shot during the shooting spree with 10 victims dying at the scene and two others at area hospitals. In total 59 victims were brought to hospitals and treated for wounds that ranged from minor to critical.
Mr. Oates also stated that bomb squad technicians had been deployed to the suspect, James Holmes's apartment, where police found several incendiary devices described as "booby traps". The apartment and surrounding area has been evacuated. The Lede which has been following the story closely quotes Mr. Oates as saying, "that he had never seen anything like it before. 'Chemical elements, incendiary linked together with all kinds of wires.'"
When the suspect, Mr. Holmes, was arrested, police say he was wearing, "a gas mask, black tactical gloves, a bullet-proof vest, protective leggings and a throat protector."
Update (10:37am): Cinemark Statement — Theater chain "working closely" with police — The company that owns the Century 16 theater in Aurora, CO, where the shooting took place has issued a statement:
Cinemark is deeply saddened about this tragic incident. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families and loved ones, our employees, and the Aurora community. We are grateful for the quick and professional reaction of all local law enforcement and emergency responders. Cinemark is working closely with the Aurora Police Department and local law enforcement.
Update (9:30am): Suspect identified — Police have identified the suspect arrested in the parking lot of the Century 16 theater after the shooting as James Holmes, 24 (photo at right). According to law enforcement officials, and reported in The New York Times, Mr. Holmes has not provided a statement and authorities are "unsure what prompted the attack."
In response to the tragic events of last night in Aurora, Colorado that resulted in twelve casualties, Warner Bros. has released a statement.
Warner Bros. is deeply saddened to learn about this shocking incident. We extend our sincere sympathies to the families and loved ones of the victims at this tragic time.
The red carpet premiere of The Dark Knight Rises that was scheduled for tonight in Paris was canceled, as were all cast interviews.