Texas shooting: More than 20 dead after gunman opens fire at church

More than 20 people have been killed after a gunman opened fire at a church in Texas.

The attack unfolded at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Wilson County, during Sunday service, police said.

Earlier estimates put the death toll as high as 27, according to reports.

About 50 people usually attend the service, locals said.

While just one shooter was reported, the FBI said it was looking into other possibilities.

Mass shooting: FBI officials arrive at the scene in Texas
REUTERS

The gunman entered the church at around 11:30 local time (17:30 GMT), according to local reports. It had also been reported that he had been killed in the aftermath.

He died after a brief car chase into nearby Guadalupe County, a Sherriff's Office deputy from that county told CNN.

The spokesman added that it was not immediately clear if he was killed by police or killed himself.

Photos and video from the scene showed the area taped off police.

Witness told how they heard semi-automatic gunfire in the area.

Wilson County Commissioner Albert Gamez Jr told CNN that at least 27 people have been killed in the shooting, but that the death toll is may climb.

"My heart is broken," Gamez said. "We never think where it can happen, and it does happen. It doesn't matter where you're at. In a small community, real quiet and everything, and look at this, what can happen."

Megan Posey, a spokeswoman for Connally Memorial Medical Center, which is in Floresville and about 10 miles from the church, said "multiple" victims were being treated for gunshot wounds.

Texas shooting: A police car and a medical vehicle are seen near the First Baptist Church
REUTERS

She declined to give a specific number but said it was less than a dozen, news agency Associated Press reported.

Some victims were taken by medical helicopter to the Brooke Army Medical Center, television station KSAT reported.

US President Donald Trump tweeted from Japan that he is monitoring the situation in Texas following a mass shooting at a church.

Trump tweeted: "May God be w/ the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas."

Texas Governor Greg Abbott released a statement following the incident.

'Terrible': The scene outside the church on Sunday
AP

He said: "While the details of this horrific act are still under investigation, Cecilia and I want to send our sincerest thoughts and prayers to all those who have been affected by this evil act.

"I want to thank law enforcement for their response and ask that all Texans pray for the Sutherland Springs community during this time of mourning and loss."

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton said in a statement: "The thoughts and prayers of all Texans are with the people of Sutherland Springs as tragic reports come out of First Baptist Church."

One witness in the area told NBC News: "We heard semi-automatic gunfire… we're only about 50 yards away from this church.

"This is a very small community, so everyone was very curious as to what was going on."

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