San Jose Mass Shooting: 9 Dead, Including Gunman, in Light Rail Facility Incident
At least nine people, including the gunman, were killed in the recent San Jose mass shooting, which took place in a light rail facility, morning of Wednesday, May 26. Wall Street Journal reported that the shooting took place in a control hub where the Valley Transportation Authority operates and stores trains. The area was a block away from the Santa Clara Sheriff's headquarters and near the city's airport.
The mass shooting in San Jose, California occurred a day after Ohi lost five lives in a shooting in an apartment complex in West Jefferson village.
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San Jose Mass Shooting in Light Rail Facility
The Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office confirmed with NBC Chicago seven people died at the scene of the mass shooting, while an individual was pronounced dead at the Santa Clara Valley Medical Center situated in San Jose. Meanwhile, a hospital official confirmed that another individual was rushed to the hospital and is in critical condition.
The gunman behind the deaths was identified by the authorities as Samuel Cassidy, 57. Wall Street Journal mentioned a public employment record revealing that Cassidy worked for VTA for at least nine years.
Cassidy was among those pronounced dead at the scene. He died of an apparent suicide, as officials confirmed there was no exchange of gunfire with the suspect.
"I know for sure that when the suspect knew that law enforcement was there, he took his own life," said Sheriff Laurie Smith at a press conference, adding that police officers responded to the 911 calls around 6:34 or 6:35 in the morning.
Meanwhile, details regarding the victims were not furthered by the officials. However, the authorities noted that some of the victims in the recent mass shooting were employees of VTA who are responsible for running the facility.
"This is a horrific day for our city, and it's a tragic day for the VTA family," said San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo.
San Jose City Councilman Raul Peralez confirmed with the Wall Street Journal that the shooting began in a union meeting. Meanwhile, San Jose Police Chief Anthony Mata underscored that there were at least 40 people present inside the facility when the mass shooting occurred.
Officials from the FBI and Department of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms were also present at the VTA facility with the Sheriff's Bomb Squad Personnel. A motive for the mass shooting is yet to be identified by the officials.
Fire Occurred in the House of the Gunman the Same Day
On the same day of the shooting in the San Jose light rail facility, a fire occurred at the residence of the gunman. Investigators believed that Cassidy was behind the fire of his own house. Wall Street Journal noted that the investigators believed that Cassidy set the fire before heading to the VTA facility.
Spokeswoman Erica Ray from San Jose Fire Department confirmed that there were no injuries in the incident. However, the fire made the home uninhabitable. SJPD's bomb squad also responded to Cassidy's home.
President Joe Biden on Gun Violence
President Joe Biden urged Congress to pass a measure that is stricter when it comes to gun control. The President also announced to lower the American flags at half-staff after the series of mass shootings that occurred around the country.
"I urge Congress to take immediate action and heed the call of the American people, including the vast majority of gun owners," said President Biden with aims to curb the gun violence in the country.
President Joe Biden's call to the Congress comes after the latest mass shooting in San Jose light trail facility that also killed the gunman himself.
READ MORE: Pres. Biden to Unveil Actions to Curb Gun Violence, Including New ATF Head
WATCH: 8 people killed in San Jose, California VTA rail yard shooting - from ABC7 News Bay Area
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