Eight Dead, Multiple Injured In Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting

The shooter, Rob Bowers, is currently in police custody.

PITTSBURGH, PA – OCTOBER 27: Police rapid response team members respond to the site of a mass shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue in the Squirrel Hill neighborhood on October 27, 2018 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. According to reports, at least 12 people were shot, 4 dead and three police officers hurt during the incident. The shooter surrendered to authorities and was taken into custody. (Photo by Jeff Swensen/Getty Images)

By Paula Rogo · Updated October 23, 2020

At least eight people have been declared dead after a gunman opened fire at Pittsburgh synagogue on Saturday. According to local police, a suspect has already been taken into custody. Multiple sources are reporting that his name is Rob Bowers, 46. According to CBS News, he has been described as “a white male with a beard.” In a short briefing, police also confirmed that three officers were shot without giving details on their condition. The incident took place at the Tree of Life Congregation in Squirrel Hill neighborhood, the hub of Pittsburgh’s Jewish Community. NBC News is currently reporting that 12 people were shot during the attack, eight of whom have been declared dead. “It’s a `terrible thing what’s going on with hate in our country,” President Trump told reports following the “devastating” shooting. He was at Andrews Air Force Base before traveling to Indianapolis.

Watching the events unfolding in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Law enforcement on the scene. People in Squirrel Hill area should remain sheltered. Looks like multiple fatalities. Beware of active shooter. God Bless All!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 27, 2018

Jonathan Greenblat, the CEO of the Anti-Defamation League, called the attack anti-semitic, adding that the gunman targeted Jews on a Saturday morning when they would have been attending service.

We are actively engaged with law enforcement to understand the extent of this anti-Semitic attack and we will work together with communities across the country to push back on prejudice wherever it appears.
— Jonathan Greenblatt (@JGreenblattADL) October 27, 2018

“We are devastated. Jews targeted on Shabbat morning at synagogue, a holy place of worship, is unconscionable,” he tweeted. “Our hearts break for the victims, their families, and the entire Jewish community.” Our thoughts and prayers are with the families, the community and the city of Pittsburgh.

TOPICS: Donald Trump guns Pittsburgh Shooting synagogue tree of life congregation