At least five people were killed and 18 injured in a Colorado Springs gay club after a man opened fire last night. The primary suspect is in custody and his motives are still unknown. Authorities are currently investigating whether or not this was a hate crime as the mass shooter targeted an establishment that was frequented by the LGBTQ+ community, named Club Q.
Authorities have revealed that they received the initial call at 11.56 p.m. on Saturday night. Within six minutes, police had entered the nightclub and had a primary suspect in custody. The suspect reportedly used a long rifle and was identified by authorities as Anderson Lee Aldrich, 22. Who also had to be transported to a local hospital for injuries.
Club Q released a statement on their official Facebook page saying that they’re “devastated by the senseless attack on our community.” They also stated that they “thank the quick reactions of heroic customers that subdued the gunman and ended this hate attack.” While official details on how the gunman was overpowered have yet to be released, officials have praised patrons of the bar for subduing him.
Hours before the deadly attack, Club Q made a post on their Facebook page about an “all ages drag brunch” that was scheduled for the following morning. Authorities are still investigating the motive of the crime.