The nation is in shock this morning following the brutal murder of at least 12 people at a midnight showing of The Dark Knight Rises in Aurora, Colorado.
Authorities believe a 24-year-old man named James Holmes is responsible for the shootings, which injured at least 38 people, including a 3-month-old infant. Found in the theater parking lot with a shotgun, a hand gun, and an "A.K. type" rifle, according to a federal law enforcement official speaking with CNN, Holmes was arrested and taken into custody shortly after the shooting. His apartment complex was evacuated after he told police he had explosive material in his home. Police have since confirmed the apartment is booby-trapped with "pretty sophisticated" materials.
According to witnesses, the gunman entered the theater wearing all black, threw tear gas canisters into the audience and began firing. Confused theatergoers reportedly believed that it was a stunt related to the film until they realized that people were actually being injured. Amateur video footage of the aftermath shows people exiting the theater covered in blood.
Though there is little information available about Holmes or his potential motive, his mother seems unsurprised by his arrest. Contacted in San Diego by ABC News, she stated, "You have the right person. I need to call the police ... I need to fly out to Colorado."
In the wake of the shooting, Warner Bros. has canceled the film's Paris premiere, which was scheduled to take place Friday evening. A rep for the studio stated, "Warner Bros. is deeply saddened to learn about this shocking incident. We extend our sincere sympathies to the families and loved ones of the victims at this tragic time."
President Barack Obama offered his condolences early Friday morning, stating, "Michelle and I are shocked and saddened by the horrific and tragic shooting in Colorado."
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