Two victims and a suspected gunman are dead after a Thursday night shooting outside of an Iowa church.
The incident unfolded just before 7:00 p.m. local time when an unidentified man fatally shot two female victims at the Cornerstone Church in Ames, Iowa, Fox News reported citing Capt. Nicholas A. Lennie.
The church was hosting an event for college kids when the gunman opened fire. Both victims were “young members” of the church, according to a Facebook post.
“It is believed that an adult male shot these two victims and then took his own life,” the church said. “We are more than saddened by the events that transpired. Our hearts break for all involved, and we are praying for everyone affected, especially the family of the victims.”
Republican Gov. Kim Reynolds called the shooting an “act of senseless violence.” (RELATED: ‘Bullets Started Flying Everywhere’: Multiple People Shot During Funeral For Man Shot By Police)
“Tonight’s act of senseless violence took the lives of two innocent victims at their place of worship. Kevin and I grieve for the families who have suffered an unfathomable loss,” Reynolds tweeted.
Tonight’s act of senseless violence took the lives of two innocent victims at their place of worship. Kevin and I grieve for the families who have suffered an unfathomable loss.
— Gov. Kim Reynolds (@IAGovernor) June 3, 2022
“And while the investigation continues and we learn more, we ask that Iowans pray for the victims and their families, the members of Cornerstone Church, and the entire Ames community,” she continued.