(Getty)
Two people have been shot outside of an immigration court in Manhattan. One of the victims is a federal officer. The gunfire broke out in the Federal Immigration Courthouse at around 5:20 p.m. on the afternoon of August 21.
Here’s what we know so far:
1. The Gunman Committed Suicide
New York 1 reports that one of the victims has died at the scene. The Wall Street Journal reports that the deceased man is the gunman, who committed suicide. A federal source told the New York Times’ Al Baker “I do believe the threat has ceased. It is not an active shooter investigation.” CBS reporter Alice Gainer tweeted that the gunman walked into the building, shot the guard, walked through a metal detector and then shot himself.
2. Police Are Calling it a ‘Random Shooting’
Scene on Varick Street right now http://t.co/BTgtpcxd77
According to the Wall Street Journal, investigating officers are calling the shooting “random.” The status of the security officer is unknown at this point. He’s being treated at the Lennox Hill Heath Complex along 7th Avenue in Manhattan, that street has been shut down as a result.
3. The Shooting Is Causing Commuting Mayhem
Federal bldg evacuated #shooting #varickstreet http://t.co/tVOb0JJrW4
Major traffic delays are ongoing in the area, with the Holland tunnel also affected during Friday’s rush hour. NBC New York reports that the public are being advised to avoid the area until further notice as there is an extensive emergency operation underway along Varick Street. The 1 subway train is bypassing Houston Street.
4. Buildings in the Area Remain on Lockdown
https://instagram.com/p/6qSN2qyDfK/
CBS New York reports that the federal building remains on lockdown. The federal immigration court is located at 201 Varick Street in Soho, Lower Manhattan. It intersects with Houston Street. According to the court’s official website, the last hearing is at 5 p.m. The gunfire broke out after that hour. A post office is also housed in the building. There 12 stories in the complex that features Department of Justice and Department of Labor offices.
5. A Witness to the Shooting Suffered a Heart Attack
The FDNY says that another person was taken to a nearby hospital after he had a heart attack during the shooting.
