UPDATE (5:15 p.m. PST):
We have learned the shooter's name is John Ernest, 19, of San Diego. He is believed to have taken part in a mosque burning in nearby Escondido last month.
San Diego County Sheriff's Department and the San Diego Police Department will have extra patrols around houses of worship throughout the area.
UPDATE (3:00 p.m. PST):
President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence condemned the attacks on worshippers, calling it a "hate crime."
Thoughts and prayers to all of those affected by the shooting at the Synagogue in Poway, California. God bless you all. Suspect apprehended. Law enforcement did outstanding job. Thank you!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 27, 2019
Thoughts and prayers to all of those affected by the shooting at the Synagogue in Poway, California. God bless you all. Suspect apprehended. Law enforcement did outstanding job. Thank you!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 27, 2019
Before heading to Green Bay, Wisconsin for a rally, Trump offered his condolences to those impacted by the shooting.
.@realDonaldTrump responds to synagogue shooting in San Diego area with sympathy and calling it a “hate crime.” pic.twitter.com/cRZVxF8PzG
— Kelly O'Donnell (@KellyO) April 27, 2019
ORIGINAL POST
San Diego County Sheriff Bill Gore held a joint press conference with the FBI and Poway Mayor Steve Vaus around 2:20 p.m. PST to provide an update on the shooting at Chabad of Poway Synagogue.
Although the situation is still fluid, we know a white, middle aged male used an "AR-style" firearm to carry out the attack. The number of rounds fired is still unknown.
Recommended
Four people were taken to Palomar Medical Center, including one female juvenile, two adult males and an older female. The older female succumbed to her injuries. The other three individuals are in stable condition.
According to Gore, an off duty Border Patrol agent at the synagogue, opened fire on him but did not hit him.
A California Highway Patrol officer heard the calls about the shooting and came in contact with the suspect. He was able to pull the suspect over, at which time he put his hands up and was taken into custody with no further incident.
Authorities say roughly 100 people are still at the synagogue waiting to be interviewed to get an idea of what took place.
According to Gore, authorities have copies of the suspect's social media accounts and an open letter, which they have yet to release.
The Family Assistance Center has been established at Poway High School. Those whose loved ones were at the synagogue are encouraged to check the FAC to reconnect.
The San Diego Police Department and FBI are working in combination with the U.S. Attorney General's Office to investigate.
Another press briefing will take place around 4:30 p.m. PST. Additional details are expected to be released then.
Join the conversation as a VIP Member