At least 5 killed in Florida bank shooting, police say
At least five people were killed when a gunman opened fire in a Florida bank on Wednesday, according to local police.
{mosads}Police in Sebring County, Fla., arrested the alleged shooter after a prolonged standoff where he had barricaded himself inside the SunTrust Bank branch. He is currently in custody, authorities said.
The suspect was identified as 21-year-old Zephen Xaver. He was inside the bank for more than 4 hours before he surrendered to a SWAT team, according to the Sebring Police Department.
MORE: Suspect identified in shooting at Florida bank; at least five people were killed in the incident. https://t.co/YW6WeVsf4o pic.twitter.com/nsigVj9WRz
— ABC News (@ABC) January 23, 2019
The SWAT team entered the SunTrust bank after initial attempts to get Xaver to walk out were unsuccessful, according to ABC News.
Xaver himself reportedly contacted the police department around 12:30 p.m., telling them he had fired shots in the bank. Police arrived on the scene shortly after.
The FBI and Florida Department of Law Enforcement are currently investigating the incident, CNN reported.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis tweeted that he and his wife were “praying for the victims and their families.” He also said he had spoken to local authorities about the “tragic shooting” and offered “all the support they may need.”
Spoke to both Sheriff Paul Blackman and FDLE Commissioner Rick Swearingen regarding the tragic shooting in Sebring and offered all the support they may need. Casey and I are praying for the victims and their families.
— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) January 23, 2019
SunTrust’s chief communications officer told CNN the bank is “working closely with officials.”
“We are working closely with officials and seeking to take care of everyone affected,” Sue Mallino told the network. “We will provide more information as soon as we can.”
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