Planned Parenthood: 3 die in shooting at Colorado clinic

A suspected gunman is in custody after he stormed the offices of a Planned Parenthood abortion clinic in Colorado and opened fire on people and police officers. One officer was killed and four were injured, while two civilians died. Up to six civilians were also shot and wounded before police persuaded the gunman to give himself up.

“It is with great sorrow that we must report that one of the officers shot today (Saturday) ... has died,” said the Colorado Fraternal Order of Police.

Police were still trying to determine the gunman’s identity, following his capture at the clinic in Colorado Springs, after a stand-off that lasted more than five hours.

“At this point, I have as many questions as you do,” Colorado Springs Police Chief Pete Carey said, after the man was detained. Witnesses said the drama began when they heard multiple shots after seeing a man wearing a long coat and hunting-style hat, armed with a long gun enter the clinic at 11.30 am. He carried some bags with him and police said they would need to check everything that had been in his possession to check there were no explosive devices among them.

Reports initially said the incident had been quickly contained. However, police then said the situation was still active and three hours after the incident began, the cops reported that more shots were fired at them. A fourth officer was injured in that exchange. Police later said a fifth officer was injured.

“Four officers were injured. Some of the injured officers have been transported [to hospital],” said Lt Catherine Buckley of the Colorado Springs Police Department, as the drama played out.