Saturday 24 September 2016

Washington state attack: Burlington mall fatalities rise to five

The death toll from a mass shooting at a shopping centre in Washington state has risen to five, police say, with the suspected gunman still at large.

Police have released a picture of the gunman, who fled the scene armed with a rifle.

The Cascade Mall and nearby shops have been evacuated and police have asked the public to stay away. The motive for the attack is not clear.

The suspect is described as a "Hispanic male wearing grey".

He was seen heading towards the Interstate 5 motorway.

Washington State Patrol spokesman Mark Francis said the fatalities had taken place inside Macy's department store.

At about 02:30 local time (10:30 GMT) on Saturday, Sgt Francis confirmed the death of a fifth victim, a man. The other four were women.

Mr Francis said the gunman had left the scene before police arrived and was last seen walking towards a motorway.

Emergency management officials have told residents to stay inside with their doors locked and avoid the area near the Cascade Mall. Drivers are being urged to keep nearby major roads clear.

The FBI, which is assisting in the investigation, says there is no evidence that further attacks are planned in Washington State.

Burlington is about 65 miles (105km) north of Seattle.

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