UPDATE - Texas: Mass shooting leaves many killed, wounded

UPDATES WITH US PRESIDENT’S TWEET

By Ali Murat Alhas

ANKARA (AA) - Multiple people were reportedly killed in a shopping mall in El Paso, in the U.S. state of Texas, when an armed assailant opened fire.

According to Enrique Castillo, spokesman for the El Paso Police Department, the incident took place at a Walmart in Cielo Visto Mall, and there were multiple people killed and dozens of others wounded.

Dee Margo, the city's mayor, said multiple suspects have been taken into custody over the mass shooting.

“Our hearts go out to the victims and gratitude to our first responders,” he said on Twitter.

Local media reports say there were at least 18 wounded, including some in critical condition, adding that many police vehicles and ambulances were dispatched to the scene.

Local media outlets also posted surveillance footage said to show a gunman entering the building with an automatic rifle; officials have yet to provide information on the assailant.

President Donald Trump responded to the shooting in a statement on Twitter.

"Terrible shootings in ElPaso, Texas. Reports are very bad, many killed. Working with State and Local authorities, and Law Enforcement. Spoke to Governor to pledge total support of Federal Government. God be with you all!"

U.S. presidential candidates have also condemned the attack and called on the public to follow instructions of police and safety officials.