(Charleston, SC) — Nine people are dead and police are hunting for the killer after a shooting at an historic black church in South Carolina. Charleston, South Carolina Police Chief Greg Mullen is calling it a hate crime. Witnesses told police a young white man walked into the Emanuel AME Church around 9 p.m. Eastern Time Wednesday and started shooting. Emanuel AME Church is said to be the oldest black congregation in the South. The church’s pastor, State Senator Clementa Pinckney, is believed to be among the dead.
Charleston Mayor Joe Riley called the shooting an unspeakable and heartbreaking tragedy. South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley said her family is praying for the victims and families touched by what she called a senseless tragedy.
Charleston Police Chief Greg Mullen says they are investigating this as a hate crime. Investigators released an image from a security camera of the suspect and his vehicle. Police are asking anyone with information to call 1-800-CALL-FBI.
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Andrew Stetka/acc
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Gus Koernig/acc
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06-18-2015 01:07:04