49 killed as gunman invades New Zealand mosques (updated)

Mass shootings at two mosques in the New Zealand city of Christchurch have left 49 people dead.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern of New Zealand also told a news conference that about 20 people were in a serious condition after the “terrorist” attack, making for “one of New Zealand’s darkest days.”

“What has happened here is an extraordinary and unprecedented act of violence,” she said, adding that the attackers have “no place in New Zealand.”

“For now my thoughts and I’m sure the thoughts of all New Zealanders are with those who have been affected their families,” she said.

What has happened in Christchurch is an extraordinary act of unprecedented violence. It has no place in New Zealand. Many of those affected will be members of our migrant communities – New Zealand is their home – they are us.

— Jacinda Ardern (@jacindaardern) March 15, 2019

The person who has committed this violent act has no place here. To those in Christchurch; I encourage you to stay inside and follow the instructions of @nzpolice. The Police Commissioner will be making a public statement at 5pm. I will update everyone again later this evening.

— Jacinda Ardern (@jacindaardern) March 15, 2019

It was gathered that a heavily armed gunman clad in military-style gear opened fire at a mosque in the center of Christchurch on Friday. A second mosque was also targeted.

Prior to the shooting, videos and documents were shared on social media which seem to suggest that the shooter live-streamed his attack on Facebook coupled with a prepared an anti-immigrant “manifesto.”

The social media posts show images of weapons and ammunition, as well as the name of perpetrators of past mass-casualty shootings.

As of press time, Facebook has taken down the videos.

“Police are aware there is extremely distressing footage relating to the incident in Christchurch circulating online,” a police statement read.

“We would strongly urge that the link not be shared. We are working to have any footage removed.”

Meanwhile, Mike Bush, New Zealand police commissioner said four people (three men and one woman) have been taken into custody while investigation is ongoing.
Brenton Tarrant has been identified as the prime suspect.