SAN JOSE, Calif. — At least eight workers at the Valley Transportation Authority light rail facility in San Jose were shot and killed by a co-worker who also killed himself, according to authorities. Several other people were wounded, with at least one in critical condition, CNN reports.
The network reports the gunman has been identified as Samuel Cassidy, a VTA employee.
NBC News reports that hours after the shooting, a bomb squad was continuing to work to clear the site. Sheriff’s Office Deputy Russell Davis told reporters authorities received information “there are explosives located inside the building. We’re trying to clear out every room, every crevice of that building.”
At about the same time as the shooting, a fire was reported at a home reportedly belonging to the suspect. NBC reports investigators believe ammunition was stored in the home and that sources report firefighters smelled an accelerant when they arrived at the scene. Davis told reporters authorities were still trying to determine any connection between the fire and the shooting.
The San Jose Mercury News, quoting a local TV station, reported the shooting happened at a union meeting, and that it occurred at the busiest time of day at the maintenance facility, when operators and maintenance workers are preparing for the start of the day’s service.
The shooting was reported at 6:34 a.m. at a hub for storage and maintenance of VTA rail equipment. The agency employs about 2,000 people and operates a three-line, 42-mile light rail network. Light rail service was suspended about noon as the crime scene investigation limited the agency’s ability to provide service.
— Updated throughout at 5:10 p.m. CDT. Watch Trains News Wire for further updates.
All our hearts go out to the families of all the workers felled in this awful happening.
According to CNN 8 people have died plus the shooter. Don’t know yet if shooter shot himself or police took him down. Also saying that there may be bombs in the building.
Shooter committed suicide.
Yeah, they always shoot themselves at the end. Why don’t any of these jack arses shoot themselves first?
RIP my rail Brothers and Sisters!!