UNLV shooting suspect named as ‘rejected professor’ Anthony Polito: Live

The gunman who killed three people and wounded a fourth in a mass shooting at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, has been identified as a career college professor who had applied for – but failed to be accepted for – a job at the school, according to reports.

Law enforcement sources told The Associated Press, CNN and NBC News that the suspect is 67-year-old Anthony Polito. He had previously unsuccessfully sought a job at the school.

The shooting unfolded at around 11.45am on Wednesday morning when gunfire rung out from Beam Hall, where the college’s Lee Business School is located.

Students, staff and faculty were warned about an “active shooter” threat, and hunkered down in classrooms and offices.

Three victims – who have not been named – were killed while a fourth was hospitalised and is now in stable condition.

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police said the gunman was shot dead by responding officers.

Several others suffered panic attacks and a number of officers were treated for minor injuries, Sheriff Kevin McMahill said in a press conference.

Key Points

• Three victims killed and fourth injured in UNLV campus shooting

• Suspect identified as 67-year-old professor Anthony Polito

• Gunman had recently unsuccessfully applied for a job at UNLV: sources

• Las Vegas police say suspected shooter was shot dead

• Gunman previously claimed to have solved the Zodiac Killer case

Suspect sent 22 letters to various universities before shooting

22:22 , Mike Bedigan

At the press conference, Sheriff Kevin McMahill said that prior to the shooting at the Las Vegas campus, the suspect – Anthony Polito – had visited a Henderson post office and sent 22 letters “to various University personnel across the country” with no return address.

“We are currently working with the postal inspector and our federal partners to begin processing these letters. We do not know the contents of these letters and we’re working to contact the recipients of those letters,” he said.

Mr McMahill continued: “In the screening of those envelopes that we were able to intercept, after going through 14,000 pieces of mail and identifying the 22 that were sent, the first letter that we opened had a unknown white powder substance in it.

“Our armor unit, detectives are out currently processing those envelopes and what we’re asking is that if anybody in the education world receives a letter with a no return address that is taped, we asked you to proceed with caution and contact your local authorities.

“Have particular attention from the ones that have been addressed are those that Carolina and UNLV.”

Mr McMahill added that a document “similar to a last weill and testament” was found at Polito’s residence in Henderson.

Still no motive for Las Vegas shooting known

22:17 , Mike Bedigan

Sheriff Kevin McMahill said that police were still trying to understand Polito’s motive for the shooting.

“I want to stress that we’re still learning a lot about this suspect is still trying to understand motive. We know he applied numerous times for a job with several Nevada higher education institutions, and was denied, each time he was rejected,” he said.

He added that the suspect had “a list of people he was seeking on a university campus” as well as faculty from the Eastern Carolina University.

“We have contacted almost everyone on those lists to make sure that they are all right. We have done that for all of UNLV and all of Eastern Carolina with the exception of one individual who is on an international flight,” Mr McMahill told a press conference.

He said that Polito was “struggling financially” at the time before the shooting, as evidenced by an eviction notice taped to his door when authorities executed a search warrant.

“We believe the suspect acted alone and we have zero indication of any other suspects at this time,” Mr McMahill said.

Police confirm identity of Las Vegas campus shooter

22:08 , Mike Bedigan

In a press conference on Thursday afternoon Sheriff Kevin McMahill confirmed the identity of the shooter as 67-year-old Anthony James Polito, from Henderson, Nevada.

According to Mr McMahill he had a previous criminal history of computer trespass out of Virginia in 1992.

On the day of the shooting Polito was armed with a Taurus nine-millimeter handgun, which had been purchased legally in 2022. He had brought 11 magazines to the scene with him.

Mr McMahill said nine loaded magazines were found on his person.

UNLV president pays tribute to identified shooting victims

21:40 , Mike Bedigan

Keith Whitfield, president of UNLV said he was heartbroken by the “senseless act of violence” that had resulted in the death of three faculty members.

Dr Patricia Navarro-Velez was an assistant professor of accounting and had “devoted her career to educating the next generation of accountants”, he said.

She joined UNLV nearly five years ago as a professor of accounting, where she primarily focused on teaching accounting information systems.

Dr Cha Jan “Jerry” Chang was a longtime educator of management information systems, who had spent more than 20 years of his academic career teaching a generation of UNLV Lee Business School students.

“My heart breaks for the families, friends, and loved ones of Dr. Navarro and Dr. Chang, and for all of the victims of this senseless act of violence that has physically and emotionally affected so many,” Mr Whitfield said.

“The incredible outpouring of love, support, and concern directed to UNLV and our students and staff over the last 24 hours provides great comfort during this trying time.

“What students, employees, and campus visitors endured yesterday during the shooting and the tense aftermath is life-changing. I again thank everyone for taking the call to shelter in place seriously.

“It was imperative for law enforcement to clear every room in every building on our campus to ensure continued safety, and I’m grateful for the immense courage and cooperation you all showed.”

All four victims of UVLN shooting were faculty members, college confirms

21:30 , Mike Bedigan

All four of the victims involved in Wednesday’s shooting were faculty members at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, the college’s president has confirmed.

In a statement, Keith E Whitfield, said that it had been “the most difficult day in the history of our university”.

“Words are still hard to come by as we’re only beginning to process the grief, loss, anger, and fear associated with Wednesday’s tragic campus shooting that took the lives of three of our cherished faculty members. Another faculty member remains hospitalized.”

Mr Whitfield confirmed the identities of two of the victims as Patricia Navarro-Velez and Cha Jan “Jerry” Chang and that they were members of the Lee Business School faculty.

The third victim, also a UNLV faculty member, will be identified following notification of next of kin, he said.

Local cheerleading gym pays tribute to victim of shooting

21:10 , Mike Bedigan

A local cheer-leading gym appeared to pay tribute to Patricia Navarro who, according to US media, has been named as one of the victims of Wednesday’s shooting.

A post by the California Allstars gym in Las Vegas sent “deepest condolences” to the “Navarro family”.

“Our hearts are shattered as we share the devastating news of the loss of a beloved member of our Cali family in yesterday’s senseless shooting,” the Instagram post read.

“Our deepest condolences and prayers go out to the Navarro family at this unimaginably difficult time. Deliana, we love you and surround you with so much love and support.”

Two victims of UNLV shooting identified by coroner

21:03 , Mike Bedigan

The first two victims of Wednesday’s UNLV shooting have been identified.

On Thursday afternoon, the Clark County Office of the Coroner/Medical Examiner released the names of two of the deceased, according to Fox 5.

The first was Professor Cha Jan Chang, 64, known as “Jerry,” of Henderson. The second victim identified is Assistant Professor Patricia Navarro Velez, 39, of Las Vegas.

The manner of death for both victims was homicide due to a gunshot wound to the head.

The third victim has also been identified but the coroner’s office is still working to identify next of kin, Fox 5 reported.

Biden condemns ‘yet another act of senseless gun violence'

19:23 , Mike Bedigan

A statement shared by White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, said: “The President and the First Lady grieve the three lives lost at UNLV yesterday in yet another act of senseless gun violence.

“Our thoughts are with those who survived this incident and are and are undoubtedly traumatised by this horrific event, including one survivor who sustained critical injuries and for the brave law enforcement officers who ran towards danger and prevented further loss of life.”

Ms Jean-Pierre added: “I also want to note that less than 24 hours ago I stood at this same podium as we mourn the six lives lost in San Antonio, and here we are again today.

“When the President talks about ending the epidemic gun violence, this is what he’s talking about.

“From Las Vegas, to Texas, to Memphis, to Maine. When will it be enough? We are in crisis and we cannot continue to live like this.

“As the president said, Republican lawmakers must join Democrats in Congress to advance common sense measures to protect Americans from gun violence. Literally every day we wait becomes another day too late.”

Watch: White House grieves three killed in ‘senseless’ UNLV mass shooting

19:05 , Mike Bedigan

Federal officials on the ground to support Vegas law enforcement

18:54 , Mike Bedigan

Federal officials are on the ground in Las vegas supporting local response efforts and providing all necessary assistance, following Wednesday’s shooting, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre has said.

The newly established office of gun violence prevention is also coordinating federal resources to help the community recover from the tragedy.

“We know it’s not just the victims and survivors who need support, but this violence rips apart, entire communities,” Ms Jean-Pierre said.

‘It looked like every single cop in Las Vegas was at UNLV’

18:42 , Mike Bedigan

Brett Johnsen, a student attending class at UNLV when the shooting occurred, said his professor had stopped mid-lecture after hearing a loud noise, but then continued unaware of what was unfolding.

“Then an alarm came on,” Mr Johnsen told CNN. “I’ve never heard an alarm like that before, it didn’t sound like a fire alarm,”

He added that things “began to get real” when the students left the room – his professor’s face turned into panic and he urged the students to get back, lock the door and get on the ground.

A few moments later, the professor opened the door to check that it was clear and advised the students to run. Mr Johnsen said he ran as fast as he could down the stairs of the building and outside as far as he could go.

He said everyone on campus was telling each other to run and evacuate. “It looked like every single cop in Las Vegas was at UNLV,” Mr Johnsen told CNN.

What we know about the UNLV shooting

18:00 , Martha Mchardy

A shooting on a college campus in Las Vegas on Wednesday has left three people dead and another seriously injured.

The suspect, who has been identified by police – though not publicly – was killed during a shoot-out with officers shortly after the attack began.

Although authorities later reassured the communtity that there was “no further threat”, many questions still remain, largely to do with the shooter and their motive.

Here’s what we know so far:

Mike Bedigan reports:

What we know about the UNLV shooting

Latest pictures from UNLV campus after shooter kills 3

17:40 , Martha Mchardy

Who is Anthony Polito? The college professor who killed three in UNLV shooting

17:20 , Martha Mchardy

The gunman who killed three people and wounded a fourth in a mass shooting at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, (UNLV) has been identified in multiple media reports as a career college professor who had applied for – but failed to be accepted for – a job at the school.

Anthony Polito, 67, was named by law enforcement sources to ABC News, CNN and NBC News on Thursday morning hours after the shooting, which ended with his own death. Police still have yet to release his identity.

The sources said Polito had unsuccessfully applied for a college professorship at UNLV sometime prior to embarking on the deadly rampage.

Rachel Sharp reports:

Who is Anthony Polito? College professor accused of deadly UNLV shooting

Vehicles left on campus during shooting can now be retrieved, says UNLV

17:00 , Martha Mchardy

Vehicles that were left on campus during Wednesday’s shooting can now be retrieved, INLV has said,

In a tweet, the university said Maryland Parkway has reopened to traffic. The school also noted that there will continue to be a “strong police presence and activity on the main campus” on Thursday as the investigation into the shooting continues.

Most of the university remains closed until Monday, with staff being advised to work remotely.

Gunman previously claimed to have solved the Zodiac Killer case

16:40 , Martha Mchardy

The gunman who shot and killed three people and injured another at the UNLV campus on Wednesday has been identified as 67-year-old college professor Anthony Polito.

The sources said Polito had unsuccessfully applied for a college professorship at UNLV sometime prior to embarking on the deadly rampage.

He also previously worked as a professor at colleges in Georgia and North Carolina, and kept a personal website where he proudly documented his academic achievements – and claimed to have solved the Zodiac Killer case.

On a section of the website titled “Theories Regarding Various Mysteries & Puzzles”, he shared a 15-page article – dated 2014 – in which he claimed he had cracked the secret of the identity of the infamous Zodiac Killer, who terrorised Northern California in the late 1960s and taunted police with codes.

In asserting his apparent solving of the case, Polito insisted he was not “a total crackpot” or a “dumb guy” but had used his MENSA skills to reach his conclusion.

“Just so you won’t initially write off my solution as that of a total crackpot, let me first say that I have been a member of MENSA for 35 years, I hold a double undergraduate degree in Mathematics & Statistics (two skills closely associated with successful cryptographers) … and I hold a masters degree and a doctoral degree from top-tier universities as well. So I am not a dumb guy!” he wrote.

“To be fair, I must state that I do NOT have any special expertise or experience in the field of cryptography, only a general and basic knowledge of it … and neither am I an expert or especially accomplished mathematician and/or statistician.”

Watch: LeBron James reacts to UNLV shooting, calling inaction on gun control ‘ridiculous'

16:21 , Martha Mchardy

LeBron James has slammed inaction on gun control after a shooting on the UNLV campus which saw three people killed and one injured.

During a news conference in LA ahead of the inaugural in-season tournament semifinals on Thursday, the basketball player said it was “senseless” that nothing changes when it comes to gun control in the United States.

Mr James said he had received a text message from his brother on Wednesday following news of the shooting, asking him to stay safe.

He then offered his condolences to the families and friends of the victims, before condemning the lack of firearm legislation in the country as “ridiculous”.

“It just goes back to what I said before about guns in America. I think it’s such a longer conversation, but we keep dealing with the same story, this same conversation every single time it happens, and it just continues to happen,” he said. “The ability to get a gun, the ability to do these things over and over and over, and there’s been no change is literally ridiculous. It makes no sense that we continue to lose innocent lives, on campuses, schools, at shopping markets and movie theaters and all type of stuff. It’s ridiculous.

“The fact that we haven’t changed anything - it’s actually been easier to be able to own a firearm... It’s stupid,” he continued.

Mr James has been a vocal advocate for gun control and reform for years, joining a consistent stream of voices from the NBA - including Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr - on the issue whenever mass shootings have occurred across the country pleading for the government to make changes to the nation’s gun laws.

His remarks come after the NBA released a statement about the shooting, calling it “senseless”. The league is also planning a moment of silence ahead of Thursday’s semifinals, ESPN reported.

National Finals Rodeo cancels Thursday performance after UNLV shooting

16:00 , Martha Mchardy

The first performance for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo on Thursday night has been cancelled after a shooting on the UNLV campus which saw three people killed and one injured.

Officials from the Las Vegas Events Board of Trustees and the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association Board of Directors said the cancellation was “in respect for those who lost their lives on December 6.”

They added that NFR will take a day of mourning.

“All of us are saddened by the events that occurred today,” said LVE president Tim Keener. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to all who have been affected. We are grateful to all of the first responders, police, security, and the UNLV community for their actions today.”

PRCA CEO Tom Glause also called the shooting a “senseless act of violence”.

“Today’s shooting on the UNLV campus was alarming and deeply troubling,” Mr Glause said. “The PRCA is grateful for the rapid, professional response from law enforcement and first responders. Our thoughts, right now, are focused on the victims.”

Additional details about event arrangements will be announced on Thursday, organizers said.

Gunman identified as 67-year-old professor Anthony Polito

15:48 , Rachel Sharp

The gunman who killed three people and wounded a fourth in a mass shooting at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, has been identified as a career college professor who had applied for – but failed to be accepted for – a job at the school, according to reports.

Law enforcement sources told The Associated Press, CNN and NBC News that the suspect is 67-year-old Anthony Polito. He had previously unsuccessfully sought a job at the school.

How bad is US gun violence?

15:40 , Martha Mchardy

According to analysis by CNN, Wednesday’s shooting at UNLV marks the 80th US school shooting this year.

Of those, 51 shootings have been reported on K-12 campuses and 29 on university and college campuses, according to the outlet. This figure includes the latest shooting in Las Vegas on the UNLV campus.

In his remarks, Mr Biden highlighted that in 2023 the country had experienced more than 600 mass shootings, and approximately 40,000 deaths due to gun violence.

“This is not normal, and we can never let it become normal,” he said.

UNLV president issues statement following campus shooting

15:20 , Martha Mchardy

UNLV president Keith Whitfield has released a statement following a shooting on campus which saw three people killed and one injured.

Mr Whitfield described the shooting as “senseless” and thanked emergency services, as well as students and staff who worked to ensure people’s safety.

“It is with the utmost sadness and grief that I am writing to you about a shooting that took place late this morning on our campus – our home,” he said in a statement on Wednesday. “We’re all still in shock as we process the unfathomable event. Members of our community lost their lives and others were injured. My heart aches for our UNLV family. I know all of us are sending our love and support to the victims, their families, and friends during this difficult time.”

He continued: “We will forever remember and honor those we have lost and who were injured. I’m grieving for the victims of today’s senseless shooting, and my heart breaks for the many students, faculty, staff, parents, loved ones, and community members who suffered through hours of painful uncertainty while officers ensured that our campus was safe and secure again.

“UNLV is strong and UNLV is resilient. Our community of faculty, staff, students, and alumni will pull together to support one another in this time of crisis. Know it’s okay not to be okay at this dark time. Ask for help if you need it. You are part of an incredible community and together we will pull through.”

The campus, about two miles from the world-famous Las Vegas Strip, will remain closed on Thursday and Friday.

UNLV students ‘no longer feel safe’ on campus after shooting

15:00 , Martha Mchardy

UNLV students have told of their horror after a gunman killed three people on campus and injured a fourth.

Police said the suspect, identified only as a 67-year-old college professor, shot at students in Beam Hall, where the college’s Lee Business School is located.

Journalism student Shainna Alipon told ABC7 she heard gunfire from inside the Student Union Building next door.

“We made our way down the stairs of the building just to escape and while we were walking down, we heard even more gunshots. I said ‘oh my gosh, I hope the shooter doesn’t come to the building where we’re at,’” she said.

“My editor-in-chief, he was kind of snapping me out of it, he was like, ‘hey can I borrow your phone? We have to take video of this; you know, we’re the press,’ and I was like, ‘oh shoot - you’re right.’ So I snapped out of it, started taking more videos, started talking to a little more people trying to see ‘hey is everyone on your end OK? What do you think is going on?’ It kind of solidified for the first time today - ‘oh I am a journalist; this is like my job,’” Ms Alipon added.

Meanwhile, Tinio, from Hercules, California told ABC he no longer fells safe on campus.

“I don’t feel safe anymore. Finals are next week and all of our finals are supposed to be in-person,” he said.

“It just makes me feel scared for the future because it’s getting closer and closer to me, closer and closer to my family, people who I love.”

Watch: Police respond to shooting at University of Nevada, Las Vegas campus

14:40 , Martha Mchardy

Police have ’no idea on the motive’ for the shooting

14:20 , Martha Mchardy

Police have “no idea on the motive” for the shooting, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department sheriff, Kevin McMahill, said at a press conference on Wednesday.

“We will be conducting this investigation into the wee hours of the morning, there is no doubt,” he added.

“I know you have an insatiable appetite like I do to find out why, to understand motivation, and we will provide that to you at the appropriate time.”

The shooter has not been named by police, but he has been identified as a 67-year-old college professor who had applied for – but failed to be accepted for – a job at the University of Nevada.

Police are searching the suspect’s home and have seized his cellphone and professional papers to look for possible clues as to the motive for the attack.

Joe Biden comments on shootings in Nevada and Texas

14:00 , Mike Bedigan

Here are the remarks made by president Joe Biden on Wednesday, following the shooting at a Las Vegas university:

“Yesterday, in Austin and San Antonio, at least six people were killed and several more injured by a gunman—leaving families devastated, and communities forever changed. And just hours ago, the University of Nevada at Las Vegas became the latest college campus to be terrorized by a horrific act of gun violence, and the community is still awaiting information on casualties,” he said.

“Jill and I join citizens across our nation in praying for the families of our fallen, and for those who were injured during these latest acts of senseless violence. We are also grateful for the courageous work of law enforcement—who risked their own safety to bring an end to these deadly shooting sprees. Federal law enforcement officials are on the ground working with State and local law enforcement in both states and I have directed that all necessary support be provided to assist in the investigations and support these communities.

“This year alone, our nation has experienced more than 600 mass shootings, and approximately 40,000 deaths due to gun violence. This is not normal, and we can never let it become normal.

“For all the action we have taken since I’ve been President, the epidemic of gun violence we face demands that we do even more. But we cannot do more without Congress. Republican lawmakers must join with Democrats in Congress to ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, pass a national red flag law, enact universal background checks, require the safe storage of guns, and advance other commonsense measures that will help stem the tide of gun violence.

“And together, we must do more to prevent more families, and more communities like Austin, San Antonio, and Las Vegas, from being ripped apart by gun violence.”

In pictures: Police respond to Las Vegas campus shooting

13:20 , Mike Bedigan

Police will not officially identity suspect until next of kin are informed

13:00 , Mike Bedigan

The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department said on Wednesday that it has identified the suspect in the shooting at a university campus, but would not be releasing it until the families of victims have been contacted.

Sheriff Kevin McMahill, told a press conference: “I would also like to tell you that we do know the identity of the suspect in this case, but I will not be releasing his name tonight until after the next of kin notification.”

However, law enforcement sources told The Associated Press, CNN and NBC News that the suspect is 67-year-old Anthony Polito.

The identity of the three victims are also yet to be released by police.

Democratic Senator slams Republicans for blocking gun law – hours before UNLV shooting

12:40 , Rachel Sharp

Democratic Senator Chris Murphy has slammed Republicans for blocking the passage of a gun law – just hours before the shooting at the University of Nevada.

“Today I asked my colleagues to pass my universal firearms background checks legislation. It’s supported by 90% of Americans and would save thousands of lives. Republicans blocked it. Three hours later, another mass shooting in UNLV. This carnage is a choice,” he wrote on X.

A ‘career professor’ gunman, three killed and a campus in fear: What we know about the UNLV shooting

12:21 , Rachel Sharp

A shooting on a college campus in Las Vegas on Wednesday has left three people dead and another seriously injured.

The suspect, who has been identified by police – though not publicly – was killed during a shoot-out with officers shortly after the attack began.

Although authorities later reassured the commmuntity that there was “no further threat”, many questions still remain, largely to do with the shooter and their motive.

Here’s what we know so far:

What we know about the UNLV shooting

IN PICTURES: Aftermath of the UNLV shooting

12:00 , Rachel Sharp

How the shooting unfolded

11:40 , Rachel Sharp

The University of Nevada shooting unfolded at around 11.45am on Wednesday morning when gunfire rung out from Beam Hall, where the college’s Lee Business School is located.

UNLV Police Chief Adam Garcia told CNN that the gunman – a professor who had tried unsuccessfully to get a job at the school – opened fire on the fourth floor of the building before moving through several other floors.

An “active shooter” alert was sent to students, staff and faculty, while on- and off-duty police officers rushed to the location.

Two university police detectives then encountered the shooter outside of Beam Hall and a shootout unfolded.

The gunman was shot dead in the exchange of gunfire.

The active shooter alert was lifted and an all-clear given around 40 minutes after the first reports of gunfire.

Las Vegas police search home connected to gunman

11:20 , Rachel Sharp

Las Vegas police are searching an apartment believed to be connected to the gunman who killed three and wounded a fourth in Wednesday’s shooting – before he was shot dead by officers.

ABC News reported that investigators were on the scene of the property in Henderson, Nevada, late on Wednesday.

Police have also seized the suspect’s cellphone and professional papers to look for possible clues as to the motive for the attack.

Three dead and one victim in critical condition after shooting at Las Vegas college campus

11:00 , Mike Bedigan

Three people are dead and one victim remains in critical condition after a shooting on a Las Vegas college campus.

The identity of the victims’ have not yet been made public. The identity of the dead suspect has also not been released by officials.

Graeme Massie has the full story:

Three dead after shooting at Las Vegas college campus

What we know about the LNVI shooting victims:

10:40 , Rachel Sharp

Three people were killed in Wednesday’s attack at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

A fourth victim was wounded and taken to hospital where they are in critical but stable condition, according to authorities.

Las Vegas police are yet to release the identities of the victims.

However, sources told ABC News that the victims were faculty or staff, and not students.

It is not clear if there is a connection between the victims and the gunman or if they were specifically targeted in the mass shooting.

WATCH: UNLV students share chilling experience

10:20 , Rachel Sharp

What we know about the UNLV shooter:

10:00 , Rachel Sharp

The gunman who killed three people and wounded a fourth in a mass shooting at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, has been identified as a career college professor who had applied for – but failed to be accepted for – a job at the school, according to reports.

Law enforcement sources told The Associated Press and CNN that the suspect is a 67-year-old professor who had unsuccessfully sought a job at the school.

The man had previously worked at East Carolina University in North Carolina.

The gunman was shot dead on the campus by responding officers.

Investigators are now searching through the gunman’s professional writings for possible clues as to the motive, according to ABC News.

President Joe Biden condemns gun violence after shootings in Texas and Nevada

09:40 , Rachel Sharp

President Joe Biden released a statement condemning gun violence after shootings took place across Texas and Nevada in the past two days.

In a statement posted on X, he said:

Yesterday, in Austin and San Antonio, at least six people were killed and several more injured by a gunman – leaving families devastated, and communities forever changed. And just hours ago, the University of Nevada at Las Vegas became the latest college campus to be terrorized by a horrific act of gun violence, and the community is still awaiting information on casualties. Jill and I join citizens across our nation in praying for the families of our fallen, and for those injured during these latest acts of senseless violence. We are grateful for the courageous work of law enforcement – who risked their own safety to bring an end to these deadly shooting sprees. For all the action we have taken since I’ve been President, the epidemic of gun violence we face demands that we do more, but we can’t without Congress. Together, we must do more to prevent more families and communities like Austin, San Antonio, and Las Vegas, from being ripped apart by gun violence.

President of gun violence organisation issues statement on shooting

09:00 , Mike Bedigan

In a statement shared with The Independent, the president of national gun violence organisation Brady, said students at the UNLV campus would feel the “ripple effects” of Wednesday’s events for “the rest of their lives”.

"Just as our nation hit a devastating record for mass shootings this year, students at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas – who have been subject to active shooter drills since childhood – will feel the ripple effects of today for the rest of their lives,” said Kris Brown.

“We should not accept a reality where an entire generation of Americans are defined by the constant threat of gun violence.

“America’s children are being gunned down at an alarming rate, and firearms are now the number one cause of death for our kids. How many more of our children have to be shot or irrecoverably traumatized by gun violence before we alter America’s relationship with firearms?”

Ms Brown continued: “UNLV is just a stone's throw away from the site of the 2017 Las Vegas massacre, the deadliest mass shooting in American history.

“Our thoughts are with the students and the Las Vegas community, and we hope for the future of our country that change will come.”

UNLV campus close to site of deadly 2017 Mandalay Bay Hotel mass shooting

07:00 , Mike Bedigan

The UNLV campus is just a short distance from the site of the 2017 mass shooting at the Mandalay Bay Hotel.

The shooting, during which 64-year-old Stephen Paddock opend fire on a concert crowd, killed 60 people. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in US history.

Paddock fired more than 1,000 rounds from the window of his 32nd floor suites at the hotel. He also injured around 413 people.

He was later found dead in his hotel room.

Four dead in 80th school shooting this year: What we know about Las Vegas college attack

06:30 , Namita Singh

The shooting at UNLV, which left four dead including the suspect, marks the 80th US school shooting this year.

Of those, 51 shootings have been reported on K-12 campuses and 29 on university and college campuses, according to the outlet. This figure includes the latest shooting in Las Vegas on the UNLV campus.

In his remarks, president Joe Biden highlighted that in 2023 the country had experienced more than 600 mass shootings, and approximately 40,000 deaths due to gun violence.

“This is not normal, and we can never let it become normal,” he said.

Report:

What we know about the Las Vegas college campus shooting

‘No student should have to fear pursuing their dreams on a college campus’

06:00 , Namita Singh

The number of students on campus at the time of the shooting wasn’t immediately clear. Out of a total of 30,000 enrolled students, a number had gathered outside the building to eat and play games, said Sheriff Kevin McMahill.If police hadn’t killed the attacker, “it could have been countless additional lives taken,” he said.

“No student should have to fear pursuing their dreams on a college campus,” the sheriff said.

In response to the campus shootings, the Federal Aviation Administration issued a ground stop of all flights coming into Harry Reid International Airport. The university is roughly 2 miles north of the airport.

Classes were cancelled through Friday at the university, and UNLV’s basketball game at the University of Dayton, Ohio, was cancelled on Wednesday night because of the shootings.

The shooting occurred just miles from the location of the deadliest mass shooting in modern US history. In the 1 October 2017 massacre, a gunman opened fire from a high-rise suite at the Mandalay Bay, killing 60 people attending a music festival below and wounding hundreds more.

‘RUN-HIDE-FIGHT’

05:30 , Namita Singh

Students and the community were first alerted to the emergency by a University of Nevada, Las Vegas post on X that warned: “This is not a test. RUN-HIDE-FIGHT.”

Matthew Felsenfeld said he and about 12 classmates barricaded their door in a building near the student union.“It’s the moment you call your parents and tell them you love them,” said Mr Felsenfeld, a 21-year-old journalism student.

Another student, Jordan Eckermann, 25, said he was in his business law class in a second-floor classroom when he heard a loud bang that he thought came from a neighbouring music class.

But then a piercing alarm went off, sending students to their feet. Some ran from the room in panic while others heeded their professor’s instructions to stay calm, said Eckermann.

He walked out and locked eyes with a law enforcement officer in a bulletproof vest holding a long gun. Clothing, backpacks and water bottles lay scattered on the floor.

Mr Eckerman said he mouthed to the officer, “Where do I go?”The officer pointed to an exit.

Minutes later, when he was outside, Mr Eckermann said he heard bursts of gunshots, totaling at least 20 rounds. The air smelled of gun powder. He said he kept walking away from campus, even though he didn’t know where to go.

Watch: Police report multiple casualties and suspect dead in Las Vegas: ‘There is no further threat’

05:00 , Mike Bedigan

‘We were in utter shock’: Witnesses share account of mass shooting

04:45 , Namita Singh

Professor Kevaney Martin took cover under a desk in her classroom, where another faculty member and three students took shelter with her.“It was terrifying.

I can’t even begin to explain,” Ms Martin said.

“I was trying to hold it together for my students, and trying not to cry, but the emotions are something I never want to experience again.”

Ms Martin said she was texting friends and loved ones, hoping to receive word a suspect had been detained. When another professor came to the room and told everyone to evacuate, they joined dozens of others rushing out of the building. Ms Martin had her students pile into her car and drove them off campus.

“Once we got away from UNLV, we parked and sat in silence,” she said. “Nobody said a word. We were in utter shock.”

Official account of mass shooting unclear

04:30 , Namita Singh

Official details of the shooting remain sketchy.

According to Sheriff Kevin McMahill of LVMPD, the shooting began on the fourth floor of Beam Hall, a building that houses the university’s business school. It then moved to other floors before finally ending outside where the suspect was “neutralised.”

However, UNLV police chief Adam Garcia told reporters that after receiving a call reporting gunfire on campus at about 11.45am (7.45pm GMT), law enforcement “immediately engaged the suspect in a shootout”. He said the suspect was fatally shot by campus police.

Vincent Perez, a professor at the school, told MSNBC by phone that he had heard a lot of gunfire before taking cover on campus.

“I would say just seven, eight shots, one after another, loud and very loud,” he said. “As soon as we heard that, we ran back inside and we realised this is a real shooting, and there’s an active shooter on campus.”

Las Vegas shooting suspect was 'a professor who recently applied for a job at UNLV’

04:15 , Namita Singh

The man suspected of fatally shooting three people and wounding another at a Las Vegas university on Wednesday was a professor who unsuccessfully sought a job at the school, a law enforcement official with direct knowledge of the investigation told The Associated Press.

The gunman was killed in a shootout with law enforcement, police said.

The attack at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas sent shock waves through a city still scarred by the deaths of 60 people in a 2017 mass shooting.

The suspect previously worked at East Carolina University in North Carolina, according to the official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they weren’t authorised to release the information publicly.

Police didn’t immediately identify the gunman, the victims or a possible motive.

LNVL campus shooting marks 80th school shooting of 2023

04:00 , Mike Bedigan

According to analysis by CNN, Wednesday’s shooting – in which three people have been confirmed dead – marks the 80th US school shooting this year.

Of those, 51 shootings have been reported on K-12 campuses and 29 on university and college campuses, according to the outlet.

This figure includes the latest shooting in Las Vegas on the UNLV campus.

One person critically injured, several suffer panic attacks

03:45 , Namita Singh

A lone shooter opened fire on the main campus of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, on Wednesday, killing three people and wounding a fourth before the suspect was shot dead by police, authorities said.

The surviving gunshot victim was listed in stable condition, according to Sheriff Kevin McMahill of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department.

He said several other people suffered panic attacks during the pandemonium, and a number of officers were treated for minor injuries sustained during a search of the sprawling campus for any additional victims or suspects. None were found.

Suspected gunman a 67-year-old professor — reports

03:19 , Namita Singh

The gunman in the mass shooting at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, is a 67-year-old career college professor, reported CNN citing law enforcement sources.

Identified as a male, he had connections to colleges in Georgia and North Carolina, the report said, adding his affiliation with the school where the shooting took place is unknown.

Watch: Police respond to shooting at University of Nevada, Las Vegas campus

03:00 , Mike Bedigan

Shooting suspect is 67-year-old college professor, reports

02:18 , Mike Bedigan

According to CNN, the suspect in the UNLV shooting is a 67-year-old career college professor.

Citing law enforcement sources, the outlet reported that the suspect has connections with schools in Georgia and North Carolina, but it is unknown what connection the suspect had with the UNLV.

Police said they are aware of the identity of the suspect, but will not release their identity until the families of the victims have been informed.

Las Vegas mayor sends condolences on behalf of the city

02:00 , Mike Bedigan

The mayor of Las Vegas, Carolyn Goodman, sent condolences on behalf of the city to the families of those affected by the shooting at UNLV.

“The families that have lost, who've had this tragedy, bespeak everything that is not good about our country, what's wrong and how we have to teach our children to handle stress and be able to work through anger and hate and other ways,” she told a press conference.

“It's a very difficult time and it's time for us as the adults – enough, it is enough and they're just people filled with anger or not understanding how to handle disappointment in their lives, that they become even more hateful and full of anger and take lives of others.

“So my condolences on behalf of the entire city and the community [and] to those we've lost those families that are so distraught and lost today and in the future. But it's a time to make it a positive and do something we must fix this now.”

Investigation will continue into ‘the wee hours’

01:20 , Mike Bedigan

Sheriff Kevin McMahill told the press conference: “We will be conducting this investigation into the wee hours of the morning, there is no doubt.

“I know you have an insatiable appetite like I do to find out why, to understand motivation, and we will provide that to you at the appropriate time.

“I would just like to end on the fact that we watched a lot of fear across the faces of those young men and women at UNLV today, and it's unfortunate that they had to live through that. But again, I'm proud of that first responder community for getting over there and doing that.”

Taking questions from reporters, Mr McMahill said that the attack had originated on the fourth floor of the BEAM building on the UNLV campus, and had gone throughout several floors, before the suspect was neutralised by officers.

Colleges will remain closed on Thursday and Friday

01:15 , Mike Bedigan

Mr Garcia said that closed campuses in southern Nevada following the shooting, would remain so on Thursday and Friday.

Further determinations will be made as to whether or not the university will reopen next week, which will be finals week for students.

Suspected gunman died in ‘shoot-out’ with officers

01:13 , Mike Bedigan

Adam Garcia, from the University Police Services – Southern Command, said the suspected gunman was killed following a shoot-out with two officers.

“First of all, let me begin by telling you all how heartbroken we are on our campus for what happened today... I am passing along our profound sense of loss for what occurred in the loss of life that took place.”

Describing the events of the incident he continued: “Two of our detectives responded to the scene and immediately engaged the suspect in a shootout. The suspect was struck and is deceased.”

Two officers injured in search for sheltering students

01:08 , Mike Bedigan

A fourth victim, who was taken to hospital in critical condition has now been upgraded to “stable”, LVMPD sheriff Kevin McMahill said.

Mr McMahill said two officers were injured during searches for students hiding in the “vast rooms and buildings” on the university campus.

“Our hearts go out to the entire UNLV community. No student should have to fear pursue pursuing their dreams on a college campus. What happened today is a heinous unforgivable crime,” he said.

Will student’s return to campus in the coming days?

00:35 , Mike Bedigan

One ULNV student told ABC News he was unsure if many would want to return to the campus following Wednesday’s incident.

“I have class show tomorrow and... it's scary. You don't know what's next, you don't. Like, I don't know if I'm going back to class tomorrow [and] even if I go back to class tomorrow – what's it going to be like? Do people even want to be here?

“Like, are people gonna want to even be on a college campus like this right now?

“Thank gosh, it's near the end of semester so we can have a month off for people to recover and hopefully we can grieve about this and come together as a community to pass this and go into next semester, but I don't know I'm super nervous, I'm nervous about next semester.”

Earlier, Adam Garcia, from the University Police Services – Southern Command, said that all higher education campuses in southern Nevada would be closed following the incident out of “an abundance of caution”.

Mr Garcia did not say when the campuses would reopen.

Three victims killed in shooting, police confirm

00:04 , Mike Bedigan

A post on X from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department confirmed that three victims had been killed during the shooting on Wednesday.

The force said that an additional victim was also at a local hospital “in critical condition”.

The suspect in the incident is also deceased, according to police,

Three people were killed in a campus shooting, say reports.

Wednesday 6 December 2023 23:57 , Graeme Massie

Three people were killed in a campus shooting at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, on Wednesday according to multiple reports.

The suspected gunman also died in the shooting, which took place days before the university’s more than 30,000 students were set to go home for the Christmas break.

Gun violence survivor Gabby Giffords speaks out on shooting

Wednesday 6 December 2023 23:11 , Graeme Massie

“I’m preparing to speak tonight at the National Vigil for All Victims of Gun Violence, and then this,” she wrote on X.

“Another shooting at a college campus, this time at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Our children deserve a future without gun violence, and I will never stop fighting for it.”

Police surround UNLV after shooting with multiple victims reported

Wednesday 6 December 2023 23:00 , Mike Bedigan

Authorities shut off roads close to a college in Las Vegas following reports of an active shooter on the campus on Wednesday, 6 December.

Police surround UNLV after shooting with multiple victims reported

Wednesday 6 December 2023 22:45 , Mike Bedigan

The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) campus, located less than two miles east of the Las Vegas Strip.

The college has a student enrollment of some 25,000 undergraduates and 8,000 post-graduates and doctoral candidates.

College basketball game cancelled following shooting

Wednesday 6 December 2023 22:30 , Mike Bedigan

A scheduled basketball game, due to take place between UNLV and the University of Dayton was cancelled following the shooting.

A post on social media from Dayton read: “Due to the tragic events unfolding on UNLV’s campus, tonight’s men’s basketball contest between UNLV and the University of Dayton will not be played.

“Further information will be released when available. We ask that our fans keep the UNLV community in their thoughts and prayers.”

Hospital confirms it has received patient following Vegas shooting

Wednesday 6 December 2023 22:25 , Mike Bedigan

Sunrise Hospital Trauma Center, located less than four miles from the UNLV campus, confirmed it had received one patient from the shooting on Wednesday.

“This afternoon, Sunrise Hospital Trauma Center has received a patient from the UNLV campus active shooter incident,” Marissa Mussi, Sunrise Hospital and Medical Center spokesperson, told CNN.

“Our hearts go out to the UNLV community, their families and everyone impacted by this tragedy.”

LVMPD confirms three victims of shooting

Wednesday 6 December 2023 22:03 , Mike Bedigan

The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department confirmed there were three victims from Wednesday’s shooting but that the extent of their injuries was “unknown”.

Sheriff Kevin McMahill said in an updated statement: “No more threat to the community. The suspect is deceased. Right now, we know there are 3 victims, but unknown extent of the injuries.”

He added: “That number could change. We will update you when we know more.”

Police are currently still combing the large UNLV campus looking for people sheltering.

Reunification centre set up for victims of shooting

Wednesday 6 December 2023 21:54 , Mike Bedigan

A reunification centre has been set up at the Las Vegas convention centre to help victims of Wednesday’s shooting, according to fire chief John C Steinbeck.

“On behalf of the entire first responder community... our hearts go out to any of the families that are affected by this,” he told a press conference.

“Our update right now is that we do have a reunification center that has opened up at the convention center, that’s at the north hall.

“It will take time to transport students over to that area, but if you can’t get a hold of your loved ones right now, your kids or somebody that you’re concerned with, then that would be the place to go and to try to go ahead and do that reunification.”

Higher education campuses in southern Nevada closed

Wednesday 6 December 2023 21:46 , Mike Bedigan

Adam Garcia, from the University Police Services – Southern Command, said that all higher education campuses in southern Nevada would be closed following the incident out of “an abundance of caution”.

“We do not have information of any potential victims at this point,” he told a press conference on Wednesday.

“What I can tell you as well, is that the entire Nevada System of Higher Education in Southern Nevada, campuses are all closed on an abundance of caution.

“There is no threat to any other campus but we are doing this out of an abundance of caution.”

LVMPD sheriff says there is ‘no further threat’ to community

Wednesday 6 December 2023 21:39 , Mike Bedigan

LVMPD sheriff Kevin McMahill told a press conference that there was “no further threat” to the community.

“Of course we have no idea on the motive,” he said.

“There are a number of victims that had been transported to area hospitals so I don’t want to give you false information and tell you how many victims that we have but we will be providing that update very, very shortly.

“I want to assure the community, there is no further threat. We are continuing the investigation here. This is still a very active and dynamic scene so if you can avoid the area, we would appreciate it.

“We’ll be providing additional updates in the very near future.”

Police press conference to take place soon

Wednesday 6 December 2023 21:30 , Mike Bedigan

Officers from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department are due to give an update on the incident shortly.

Watch: Police respond to shooting at University of Nevada, Las Vegas campus

Wednesday 6 December 2023 21:15 , Mike Bedigan

Students describe ‘panic’ of shooting and evacuation

Wednesday 6 December 2023 20:55 , Mike Bedigan

A student from the University of Nevada described sheltering in place in the student union building after hearing reports of an active shooter.

“We found out cops were on site and we just sheltered in place until we were evacuated. And it took us about 30 minutes to get us evacuated,” the student, who gave her name as Jessica, told CNN affiliate KVVU.

Another student who did not give her name told KVVU: “They had guns, we all walked out of the building hands up. They evacuated us out of the student union. We walked past one of the windows, the window was shot through, glass everywhere.”

The student said they could hear the gunshots from where they were in the student union.

“[There were] about 200 kids all in one space,” she said. “A lot of people were panicking.”

Las Vegas police say suspected shooter is ‘deceased’

Wednesday 6 December 2023 20:44 , Mike Bedigan

‘Active shooting’ with multiple victims reported on Las Vegas college campus

Wednesday 6 December 2023 20:34 , Mike Bedigan

An active shooting with “multiple victims” has been reported on a Las Vegas college campus, according to police.

Police responded to Beam Hall at the University of Nevada Las Vegas, according to a text sent to students and staff.

Graeme Massie has the full story:

‘Active shooting’ with multiple victims reported on Las Vegas college campus