5 dead, 18 injured in shooting at gay club in Colorado Springs

Five people were killed and 18 injured in a shooting at a gay nightclub in Colorado, USA.

The attack occurred early Sunday morning (local time) at Club Q in Colorado Springs.

Police have identified the suspect as 22-year-old Anderson Lee Aldrich. Press conference.

Colorado Springs Police Chief Adrian Vazquez told reporters that the shooter was taken into custody about five minutes after police first received a call about the shooting.

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Vasquez said two brave customers confronted the gunman and stopped firing.

“We are very grateful to them,” he said.

A video shared on social media showed ambulances lined up on the street outside the club, showing a massive police and emergency response.

Police said the suspect was being treated for injuries but did not disclose a possible motive.

Colorado Springs Fire Chief Mike Smaldino said 11 ambulances responded to the scene after multiple 911 calls were received.

Club Q advertises itself as “an adult-oriented gay & lesbian nightclub that hosts themed nights including karaoke, drag shows, and DJs.”

and statement On social media, Club Q said it was “devastated by the senseless attack on our community” and offered its condolences to the victims and their loved ones.

“Thank you to our heroic customers for their quick response in subduing the gunman and ending this hate attack.”

The attack occurred on Transgender Day, which takes place annually on November 20th.

Club Q planned to celebrate the day with a drag showcase.

In 2016, a gunman opened fire. pulse nightclubAt least 49 people have been killed and 53 injured at a gay club in Florida. At the time, it was the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history.

Additional reports from AP