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Charleston church shooting: nine people dead, suspect at large – latest updates Charleston church shooting: nine people dead, suspect at large – latest updates
(35 minutes later)
6.56pm AEST09:56
NAACP expresses outrage
The NAACP has expressed its outrage at what it said were senseless and cowardly killings.
Its president Cornell Brooks put out this statement:
The NAACP was founded to fight against racial hatred and we are outraged that 106 years later, we are faced today with another mass hate crime. Our heartfelt prayers and soul-deep condolences go out to the families and community of the victims at Charleston’s historic Emanuel AME Church. The senselessly slain parishioners were in a church for Wednesday night bible study. There is no greater coward than a criminal who enters a house of God and slaughters innocent people engaged in the study of scripture. Today I mourn as an AME minister, as a student and teacher of scripture, as well as a member of the NAACP.
The NAACP South Carolina State Conference and Charleston Branch have been working on the ground—with police and the community to bring this case to a close. We remain vigilant while the local police and FBI investigate this hate crime and bring the shooter to justice.
6.48pm AEST09:48
This graphic shows the location of the shooting.
6.46pm AEST09:46
The suspect briefly observed a Bible group meeting before standing up and opening fire, according Dr Norvel Goff a senior pastor at he AME church in Columbia. He gave this statement after meeting families and the mayor, according to Robert Costa from the Washington Post.
Dr. Norvel Goff, who just met w/ families and mayor, shares what he has heard about the killer pic.twitter.com/99La93lxEO
6.35pm AEST09:35
In April, Rev Pinckney, the pastor who was killed in the shooting, led a “Requiem on Racism” in the church.
He said he hoped the service would help “root out any forms of violence and bigotry”.
6.22pm AEST09:226.22pm AEST09:22
SummarySummary
Claire PhippsClaire Phipps
Here is what we know so far, as police in South Carolina continue to hunt for a gunman who shot dead nine people in their church in Charleston:Here is what we know so far, as police in South Carolina continue to hunt for a gunman who shot dead nine people in their church in Charleston:
We’ll never understand what motivates anyone to enter one of our places of worship and take the life of another.We’ll never understand what motivates anyone to enter one of our places of worship and take the life of another.
I’m handing over this blog to my colleague Matthew Weaver now. We will continue to bring you the latest updates as the story unfolds.I’m handing over this blog to my colleague Matthew Weaver now. We will continue to bring you the latest updates as the story unfolds.
5.56pm AEST08:565.56pm AEST08:56
My colleague Matthew Weaver has put together this profile of Clementa Pinckney, the pastor shot dead in his church with eight others:My colleague Matthew Weaver has put together this profile of Clementa Pinckney, the pastor shot dead in his church with eight others:
In April Pinckney helped lead a prayer vigil for Walter Scott, a black South Carolina man who was shot dead by a police officer as he tried to run away.In April Pinckney helped lead a prayer vigil for Walter Scott, a black South Carolina man who was shot dead by a police officer as he tried to run away.
Pinckney campaigned for legislation to require police officers to wear body cameras while working. He said: “Body cameras help to record what happens. It may not be the golden ticket, the golden egg, the end-all-fix-all, but it helps to paint a picture of what happens during a police stop.”Pinckney campaigned for legislation to require police officers to wear body cameras while working. He said: “Body cameras help to record what happens. It may not be the golden ticket, the golden egg, the end-all-fix-all, but it helps to paint a picture of what happens during a police stop.”
The Rev Joseph Darby, the presiding elder at Beaufort AME Church, described Pinckney as “an advocate for the people”. He told MSNBC: “He was a very caring and competent pastor, and he was a very brave man. Brave men sometimes die difficult deaths.”The Rev Joseph Darby, the presiding elder at Beaufort AME Church, described Pinckney as “an advocate for the people”. He told MSNBC: “He was a very caring and competent pastor, and he was a very brave man. Brave men sometimes die difficult deaths.”
Pinckney leaves a wife, Jennifer, and two children, Eliana and Malana.Pinckney leaves a wife, Jennifer, and two children, Eliana and Malana.
You can read the full profile via the link below:You can read the full profile via the link below:
Related: Charleston shooting: state senator Clementa Pinckney among victimsRelated: Charleston shooting: state senator Clementa Pinckney among victims
5.49pm AEST08:495.49pm AEST08:49
Clementa Pinckney named among the deadClementa Pinckney named among the dead
Multiple reports have said that Rev Clementa Pinckney, Emanuel church’s pastor and a Democratic member of the South Carolina Senate, was among the nine people killed.Multiple reports have said that Rev Clementa Pinckney, Emanuel church’s pastor and a Democratic member of the South Carolina Senate, was among the nine people killed.
This has yet to be officially confirmed by Charleston police or the coroner, but South Carolina state house minority leader Todd Rutherford has told the Associated Press that Pinckney was among those killed:This has yet to be officially confirmed by Charleston police or the coroner, but South Carolina state house minority leader Todd Rutherford has told the Associated Press that Pinckney was among those killed:
He never had anything bad to say about anybody, even when I thought he should.He never had anything bad to say about anybody, even when I thought he should.
He was always out doing work either for his parishioners or his constituents. He touched everybody.He was always out doing work either for his parishioners or his constituents. He touched everybody.
Pinckney, 41, was a married father of two who was elected to the state house at age 23, making him the youngest member of the House at the time.Pinckney, 41, was a married father of two who was elected to the state house at age 23, making him the youngest member of the House at the time.
5.34pm AEST08:345.34pm AEST08:34
It’s worth repeating that a man handcuffed by police officers earlier on Wednesday evening, fitting the description of the suspect, has been released and is not considered a suspect.It’s worth repeating that a man handcuffed by police officers earlier on Wednesday evening, fitting the description of the suspect, has been released and is not considered a suspect.
He is photographer Austin Rich and he later posted this update to Facebook:He is photographer Austin Rich and he later posted this update to Facebook:
This is a statement from the man we saw detained earlier. #chsnews pic.twitter.com/kCUfDlAkLCThis is a statement from the man we saw detained earlier. #chsnews pic.twitter.com/kCUfDlAkLC
5.18pm AEST08:185.18pm AEST08:18
The latest from Charleston police department, which confirms the gunman remains at large:The latest from Charleston police department, which confirms the gunman remains at large:
Police still searching for shooting suspect for incident at 110 Calhoun StPolice still searching for shooting suspect for incident at 110 Calhoun St
5.15pm AEST08:155.15pm AEST08:15
More images are arriving of the scene in Charleston tonight, where police continue to hunt for the gunman who shot dead nine people:More images are arriving of the scene in Charleston tonight, where police continue to hunt for the gunman who shot dead nine people:
Updated at 5.17pm AESTUpdated at 5.17pm AEST
5.03pm AEST08:035.03pm AEST08:03
Helicopters are still circling in the air above Charleston, as police continue their search for the man suspected of shooting dead nine people in their church.Helicopters are still circling in the air above Charleston, as police continue their search for the man suspected of shooting dead nine people in their church.
It’s now 3am in Charleston.It’s now 3am in Charleston.
It’s much lower this time. Right over Marion Square and the block at the church. #chsnewsIt’s much lower this time. Right over Marion Square and the block at the church. #chsnews
4.55pm AEST07:554.55pm AEST07:55
Suspect descriptionSuspect description
A reminder of the description issued by Charleston police earlier tonight.A reminder of the description issued by Charleston police earlier tonight.
The suspect is still at large.The suspect is still at large.
He is described as a white male, aged around 21, slender and clean-shaven.He is described as a white male, aged around 21, slender and clean-shaven.
He was said to be wearing a gray sweatshirt, blue jeans and Timberland boots.He was said to be wearing a gray sweatshirt, blue jeans and Timberland boots.
4.51pm AEST07:514.51pm AEST07:51
I’m hearing that Charleston police chief Greg Mullen and mayor Joseph Riley will hold another press conference at 7am local time (noon BST/9pm AEST), in around four hours’ time.I’m hearing that Charleston police chief Greg Mullen and mayor Joseph Riley will hold another press conference at 7am local time (noon BST/9pm AEST), in around four hours’ time.
It’s not yet clear whether we will hear at that point, or before, the identities of those killed. So far, despite many reports on social media, no names have been confirmed.It’s not yet clear whether we will hear at that point, or before, the identities of those killed. So far, despite many reports on social media, no names have been confirmed.
Authorities have also so far declined to say how many people survived – though we know at least one person is in hospital – and what is their condition.Authorities have also so far declined to say how many people survived – though we know at least one person is in hospital – and what is their condition.
4.38pm AEST07:384.38pm AEST07:38
Following the shooting, a group of pastors huddled together praying in a circle across the street.Following the shooting, a group of pastors huddled together praying in a circle across the street.
Community organiser Christopher Cason told reporters he felt certain the shootings were racially motivated.Community organiser Christopher Cason told reporters he felt certain the shootings were racially motivated.
I am very tired of people telling me that I don’t have the right to be angry.I am very tired of people telling me that I don’t have the right to be angry.
I am very angry right now.I am very angry right now.
Even before the killing of local black man Walter Scott by a white police officer in April, Cason said he had been part of a group meeting with police and local leaders to try to shore up better relationships.Even before the killing of local black man Walter Scott by a white police officer in April, Cason said he had been part of a group meeting with police and local leaders to try to shore up better relationships.
Updated at 5.28pm AESTUpdated at 5.28pm AEST
4.30pm AEST07:304.30pm AEST07:30
The King Center, the memorial to Martin Luther King, has tweeted this image of King at the Emanuel AME church in 1962.The King Center, the memorial to Martin Luther King, has tweeted this image of King at the Emanuel AME church in 1962.
Dr. King at #EmanuelAME. #HistoricBlackChurch #CivilRightsMovement #CharlestonShooting pic.twitter.com/Iu3ihGjQ2VDr. King at #EmanuelAME. #HistoricBlackChurch #CivilRightsMovement #CharlestonShooting pic.twitter.com/Iu3ihGjQ2V
In a series of tweets, the center concluded:In a series of tweets, the center concluded:
9) At this point, it should certainly be beyond clear why #BlackLivesMatter is an earnest cry and an affirmation. #UnderSiege #Charleston9) At this point, it should certainly be beyond clear why #BlackLivesMatter is an earnest cry and an affirmation. #UnderSiege #Charleston
4.20pm AEST07:204.20pm AEST07:20
Charleston’s police chief has said the shooting is being investigated as a hate crime.Charleston’s police chief has said the shooting is being investigated as a hate crime.
South Carolina has faced claims of systemic racism, reports my colleague Tom Dart:South Carolina has faced claims of systemic racism, reports my colleague Tom Dart:
The shooting happened in the heart of downtown Charleston, a wealthy area which is one of the most historic and popular tourist destinations in the US and only a couple of blocks from the College of Charleston, which has about 12,000 students.The shooting happened in the heart of downtown Charleston, a wealthy area which is one of the most historic and popular tourist destinations in the US and only a couple of blocks from the College of Charleston, which has about 12,000 students.
Racial tensions were raised by the death of Walter Scott, a black man shot in the back by a white police officer in April in North Charleston, an adjacent city of about 100,000 people where nearly half the population is black. Protestors said the killing was evidence of systemic racism in the state.Racial tensions were raised by the death of Walter Scott, a black man shot in the back by a white police officer in April in North Charleston, an adjacent city of about 100,000 people where nearly half the population is black. Protestors said the killing was evidence of systemic racism in the state.
The Confederate flag, which many African-Americans see as a symbol of racial hatred, flew on top of the state capitol building in Columbia until 2000 and is still on display in the grounds on a pole in front of the capitol.The Confederate flag, which many African-Americans see as a symbol of racial hatred, flew on top of the state capitol building in Columbia until 2000 and is still on display in the grounds on a pole in front of the capitol.
The black population of central Charleston has sharply declined amid rising house prices and gentrification, reversing the “white flight” that happened after desegregation of schools in the 1960s, according to a Post and Courier article from last year.The black population of central Charleston has sharply declined amid rising house prices and gentrification, reversing the “white flight” that happened after desegregation of schools in the 1960s, according to a Post and Courier article from last year.
4.02pm AEST07:024.02pm AEST07:02
The Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal church has a rich history, Associated Press reports:The Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal church has a rich history, Associated Press reports:
The Emmanuel AME church is a historic African-American church that traces its roots to 1816, when several churches split from Charleston’s Methodist Episcopal church.The Emmanuel AME church is a historic African-American church that traces its roots to 1816, when several churches split from Charleston’s Methodist Episcopal church.
One of its founders, Denmark Vesey, tried to organize a slave revolt in 1822. He was caught, and white landowners had his church burned in revenge. Parishioners worshipped underground until after the Civil War.One of its founders, Denmark Vesey, tried to organize a slave revolt in 1822. He was caught, and white landowners had his church burned in revenge. Parishioners worshipped underground until after the Civil War.
The church’s own website says it is the oldest AME church in the south, with “one of the largest and oldest black congregations south of Baltimore”:The church’s own website says it is the oldest AME church in the south, with “one of the largest and oldest black congregations south of Baltimore”:
The wooden two-story church that was built on the present site in 1872 was destroyed by the devastating earthquake of August 31, 1886.The wooden two-story church that was built on the present site in 1872 was destroyed by the devastating earthquake of August 31, 1886.
The present edifice was completed in 1891.The present edifice was completed in 1891.
3.57pm AEST06:573.57pm AEST06:57
Charleston’s newspaper, the Post and Courier, has sent out its front page for Thursday’s edition:Charleston’s newspaper, the Post and Courier, has sent out its front page for Thursday’s edition:
Today's tragic front page. http://t.co/uPj4AOavhn #CharlestonShooting #PrayForCharleston #chsnews pic.twitter.com/2qkCWHqu1MToday's tragic front page. http://t.co/uPj4AOavhn #CharlestonShooting #PrayForCharleston #chsnews pic.twitter.com/2qkCWHqu1M
3.47pm AEST06:473.47pm AEST06:47
Rev Clementa Pinckney – pastor of Emanuel AME church and a Democratic member of the South Carolina Senate, who was inside the church at the time of the shooting – helped lead a prayer vigil in April for Walter Scott, a black South Carolina man who was shot dead by a police officer.Rev Clementa Pinckney – pastor of Emanuel AME church and a Democratic member of the South Carolina Senate, who was inside the church at the time of the shooting – helped lead a prayer vigil in April for Walter Scott, a black South Carolina man who was shot dead by a police officer.
Pinckney campaigned for legislation to require law enforcement officials to wear body cameras while working, saying:Pinckney campaigned for legislation to require law enforcement officials to wear body cameras while working, saying:
Body cameras help to record what happens.Body cameras help to record what happens.
It may not be the golden ticket, the golden egg, the end-all-fix-all, but it helps to paint a picture of what happens during a police stop.It may not be the golden ticket, the golden egg, the end-all-fix-all, but it helps to paint a picture of what happens during a police stop.
The body camera requirement became law one week ago.The body camera requirement became law one week ago.
It is not clear whether Pinckney survived the shooting.It is not clear whether Pinckney survived the shooting.
3.36pm AEST06:363.36pm AEST06:36
Here are some more of the comments from the police press conference, at which it was confirmed that nine people were shot dead in the attack on the Emanuel AME church.Here are some more of the comments from the police press conference, at which it was confirmed that nine people were shot dead in the attack on the Emanuel AME church.
Police chief Greg Mullen said:Police chief Greg Mullen said:
At 9.05 we received a call on a shooting that occurred here in Charleston. When officers arrived they found a number of victims inside and we had individuals transported to the trauma centre.At 9.05 we received a call on a shooting that occurred here in Charleston. When officers arrived they found a number of victims inside and we had individuals transported to the trauma centre.
There were eight deceased inside the church.There were eight deceased inside the church.
Another person died later in hospital, Mullen said:Another person died later in hospital, Mullen said:
At this point we have nine victims in this heinous crime that has been committed.At this point we have nine victims in this heinous crime that has been committed.
I believe this was a hate crime. It will be investigated as a hate crime.I believe this was a hate crime. It will be investigated as a hate crime.
Mayor Joseph P Riley Jr called the shooting an “unspeakable tragedy”:Mayor Joseph P Riley Jr called the shooting an “unspeakable tragedy”:
The most dastardly act that one can possibly imagine.The most dastardly act that one can possibly imagine.
The message is this is one hateful person that did these dastardly deeds.The message is this is one hateful person that did these dastardly deeds.
3.19pm AEST06:193.19pm AEST06:19
South Carolina senator Tim Scott has been tweeting about the news that nine people have been shot dead in their church:South Carolina senator Tim Scott has been tweeting about the news that nine people have been shot dead in their church:
This senseless tragedy at a place of worship-where we come together to laugh,love&rejoice in God's name-is despicable&can't be understoodThis senseless tragedy at a place of worship-where we come together to laugh,love&rejoice in God's name-is despicable&can't be understood
Tonight we stand in prayer for Pastor Pinckney and his congregation, and the families who are enduring unimaginable pain at their loss.Tonight we stand in prayer for Pastor Pinckney and his congregation, and the families who are enduring unimaginable pain at their loss.
I hope for their sake, and for the people of Charleston, that the perpetrators of this terrible crime are swiftly brought to justice.I hope for their sake, and for the people of Charleston, that the perpetrators of this terrible crime are swiftly brought to justice.
3.15pm AEST06:153.15pm AEST06:15
My colleague Michael Safi files this report on the latest developments:My colleague Michael Safi files this report on the latest developments:
At least nine people have been killed after a gunman opened fire at a historic black church in Charleston, South Carolina, in what police have described as a hate crime.At least nine people have been killed after a gunman opened fire at a historic black church in Charleston, South Carolina, in what police have described as a hate crime.
A bomb threat was also briefly issued after security services swarmed the area around the Emanuel AME Church, whose pastor Clementa Pinckney, a Democratic member of the South Carolina Senate, was said to be present at the time of the shooting.A bomb threat was also briefly issued after security services swarmed the area around the Emanuel AME Church, whose pastor Clementa Pinckney, a Democratic member of the South Carolina Senate, was said to be present at the time of the shooting.
Police have not confirmed the identities of the victims, eight of whom were killed in the church, another dying later in hospital.Police have not confirmed the identities of the victims, eight of whom were killed in the church, another dying later in hospital.
Charleston police chief Greg Mullen said there were survivors, but declined to give more details.Charleston police chief Greg Mullen said there were survivors, but declined to give more details.
The suspect, who is still on the loose, has been described as a clean-shaved, white male aged approximately 21, with a small, slender build, wearing a grey sweatshirt with jeans and boots.The suspect, who is still on the loose, has been described as a clean-shaved, white male aged approximately 21, with a small, slender build, wearing a grey sweatshirt with jeans and boots.
Mullen said he believed the shooting was “a hate crime”.Mullen said he believed the shooting was “a hate crime”.
The city’s mayor, Joseph P Riley Jr, described the killing as an “unspeakable tragedy”, pledging to catch “this awful person and bring him to justice as soon as possible”.The city’s mayor, Joseph P Riley Jr, described the killing as an “unspeakable tragedy”, pledging to catch “this awful person and bring him to justice as soon as possible”.
He said he had met with relatives of the victims in a “heartbreaking scene”.He said he had met with relatives of the victims in a “heartbreaking scene”.
South Carolina governor Nikki Haley said details of the shooting were still unclear, but “we do know that we’ll never understand what motivates anyone to enter one of our places of worship and take the life of another”.South Carolina governor Nikki Haley said details of the shooting were still unclear, but “we do know that we’ll never understand what motivates anyone to enter one of our places of worship and take the life of another”.
“Please join us in lifting up the victims and their families with our love and prayers,” she said.“Please join us in lifting up the victims and their families with our love and prayers,” she said.
Presidential candidate Jeb Bush has cancelled a planned trip to the state, and the South Carolina legislature has suspended a sitting planned for Thursday.Presidential candidate Jeb Bush has cancelled a planned trip to the state, and the South Carolina legislature has suspended a sitting planned for Thursday.
Related: Charleston church shooting: nine dead after 'hate crime' attackRelated: Charleston church shooting: nine dead after 'hate crime' attack
Updated at 3.23pm AESTUpdated at 3.23pm AEST
3.05pm AEST06:053.05pm AEST06:05
What we now knowWhat we now know
The press conference is over and here are the confirmed details:The press conference is over and here are the confirmed details:
3.02pm AEST06:023.02pm AEST06:02
The press conference is over.The press conference is over.
Here are some of the comments from police chief Greg Mullen:Here are some of the comments from police chief Greg Mullen:
This is a tragedy that no community should have to experience … It is senseless, unfathomable …This is a tragedy that no community should have to experience … It is senseless, unfathomable …
We are going to do everything in our power to find this individual, to lock him up, to make sure he does not hurt anyone else …We are going to do everything in our power to find this individual, to lock him up, to make sure he does not hurt anyone else …
The primary emphasis is going to be us catching this individual before he hurts anybody else.The primary emphasis is going to be us catching this individual before he hurts anybody else.
3.01pm AEST06:013.01pm AEST06:01
Police chief Mullen says the earlier bomb threat has been rescinded.Police chief Mullen says the earlier bomb threat has been rescinded.
3.00pm AEST06:003.00pm AEST06:00
Norvel Goff, presiding elder of the Church group which includes Emanuel, speaks now:Norvel Goff, presiding elder of the Church group which includes Emanuel, speaks now:
More than 50 AME preachers are here to support the community, he says.More than 50 AME preachers are here to support the community, he says.
There will be a prayer vigil at noon on Thursday, he says.There will be a prayer vigil at noon on Thursday, he says.
This is a hate crime … we stand in solidarity.This is a hate crime … we stand in solidarity.
Updated at 3.54pm AESTUpdated at 3.54pm AEST
2.58pm AEST05:582.58pm AEST05:58
Mullen and Riley say they are looking for only one suspect.Mullen and Riley say they are looking for only one suspect.
2.58pm AEST05:582.58pm AEST05:58
Mullen says there are survivors but he declines to give numbers. He won’t give details of their medical condition.Mullen says there are survivors but he declines to give numbers. He won’t give details of their medical condition.
To recap: nine people have died – eight on the scene, and one later in hospital. At least one person is injured and being treated in hospital.To recap: nine people have died – eight on the scene, and one later in hospital. At least one person is injured and being treated in hospital.
2.56pm AEST05:562.56pm AEST05:56
Police chief: 'I do believe this is a hate crime'Police chief: 'I do believe this is a hate crime'
Mullen says this is being investigated as a hate crime.Mullen says this is being investigated as a hate crime.
Updated at 5.26pm AESTUpdated at 5.26pm AEST
2.55pm AEST05:552.55pm AEST05:55
Mayor Joe Riley speaks now. He says this is an “unspeakable tragedy”.Mayor Joe Riley speaks now. He says this is an “unspeakable tragedy”.
He says they will catch “this awful person and bring him to justice as soon as possible”.He says they will catch “this awful person and bring him to justice as soon as possible”.
He says his meeting with the relatives of the victims was a “heartbreaking scene”.He says his meeting with the relatives of the victims was a “heartbreaking scene”.
There will be a reward announced on Thursday for the suspect’s capture, Mullen adds.There will be a reward announced on Thursday for the suspect’s capture, Mullen adds.
2.53pm AEST05:532.53pm AEST05:53
Mullen says they cannot release the names of any victims at this point.Mullen says they cannot release the names of any victims at this point.
2.50pm AEST05:502.50pm AEST05:50
Charleston police: nine confirmed deadCharleston police: nine confirmed dead
Charleston police chief Greg Mullen and Mayor Joe Riley are with reporters.Charleston police chief Greg Mullen and Mayor Joe Riley are with reporters.
Mullen says there were a number of victims. Some have been moved to hospital.Mullen says there were a number of victims. Some have been moved to hospital.
Eight people died in the church. One later died in hospital.Eight people died in the church. One later died in hospital.
There are nine confirmed fatalities.There are nine confirmed fatalities.
2.47pm AEST05:472.47pm AEST05:47
My colleague Tom Dart sends this background:My colleague Tom Dart sends this background:
South Carolina is no stranger to mass shootings. Six people died in Greenwood, 180 miles from Charleston, in 2013 when Bryan Sweatt killed three adults, two children and himself using a handgun as the result of a domestic dispute.South Carolina is no stranger to mass shootings. Six people died in Greenwood, 180 miles from Charleston, in 2013 when Bryan Sweatt killed three adults, two children and himself using a handgun as the result of a domestic dispute.
In 2011, Susan Hendricks shot dead her two sons, her ex-husband and her stepmother in the small town of Liberty.In 2011, Susan Hendricks shot dead her two sons, her ex-husband and her stepmother in the small town of Liberty.
After being fired from his job at a lawnmower equipment factory in Aiken County in 1997, Hastings Wise returned weeks later and killed four employees with a semiautomatic gun, injuring three others. He was executed in 2005.After being fired from his job at a lawnmower equipment factory in Aiken County in 1997, Hastings Wise returned weeks later and killed four employees with a semiautomatic gun, injuring three others. He was executed in 2005.
2.41pm AEST05:412.41pm AEST05:41
Hillary Clinton – who was in Charleston earlier on Wednesday as part of her presidential candidate campaign, and reportedly met the church pastor, Clementa Pinckney – has tweeted her condolences:Hillary Clinton – who was in Charleston earlier on Wednesday as part of her presidential candidate campaign, and reportedly met the church pastor, Clementa Pinckney – has tweeted her condolences:
Heartbreaking news from Charleston - my thoughts and prayers are with you all. -HHeartbreaking news from Charleston - my thoughts and prayers are with you all. -H
2.34pm AEST05:342.34pm AEST05:34
There is still no confirmation on the number of victims, or their condition, but Charleston police department has just issued this update:There is still no confirmation on the number of victims, or their condition, but Charleston police department has just issued this update:
No victims in the Calhoun St shootings have been identified.No victims in the Calhoun St shootings have been identified.
Police still searching for suspect in Calhoun St shooting.Police still searching for suspect in Calhoun St shooting.
Updated at 5.23pm AESTUpdated at 5.23pm AEST
2.30pm AEST05:302.30pm AEST05:30
South Carolina governor Nikki Haley has issued a statement on the shooting:South Carolina governor Nikki Haley has issued a statement on the shooting:
Michael, Rena, Nalin and I are praying for the victims and families touched by tonight’s senseless tragedy at Emanuel AME Church.Michael, Rena, Nalin and I are praying for the victims and families touched by tonight’s senseless tragedy at Emanuel AME Church.
While we do not yet know all of the details, we do know that we’ll never understand what motivates anyone to enter one of our places of worship and take the life of another.While we do not yet know all of the details, we do know that we’ll never understand what motivates anyone to enter one of our places of worship and take the life of another.
Please join us in lifting up the victims and their families with our love and prayers.Please join us in lifting up the victims and their families with our love and prayers.
2.25pm AEST05:252.25pm AEST05:25
It appears that Clementa Pinckney – the church pastor and a Democratic member of the South Carolina Senate, who was inside the church at the time of the shooting – was with Hillary Clinton earlier in the day as she campaigned in Charleston:It appears that Clementa Pinckney – the church pastor and a Democratic member of the South Carolina Senate, who was inside the church at the time of the shooting – was with Hillary Clinton earlier in the day as she campaigned in Charleston:
State Sen Clementa Pinckney is pastor of Emmanuel AME. Earlier this evening he attended a fundraiser with Hillary Clinton. #CharlestonState Sen Clementa Pinckney is pastor of Emmanuel AME. Earlier this evening he attended a fundraiser with Hillary Clinton. #Charleston
2.15pm AEST05:152.15pm AEST05:15
Republican presidential hopeful Jeb Bush was due to be campaigning in South Carolina on Thursday – this has now been called off:Republican presidential hopeful Jeb Bush was due to be campaigning in South Carolina on Thursday – this has now been called off:
BREAKING Gov Jeb Bush has cancelled his South Carolina presidential kickoff event Thursday because of the mass fatal shooting in CharlestonBREAKING Gov Jeb Bush has cancelled his South Carolina presidential kickoff event Thursday because of the mass fatal shooting in Charleston
Democrat candidate Hillary Clinton was in Charleston earlier on Wednesday, but is believed to have already left South Carolina before this evening’s attack.Democrat candidate Hillary Clinton was in Charleston earlier on Wednesday, but is believed to have already left South Carolina before this evening’s attack.
South Carolina’s legislature will also not convene on Thursday:South Carolina’s legislature will also not convene on Thursday:
In light of #CHS shooting, SC legislature will not be meeting tomorrow. @wis10 #scpol #sctweetsIn light of #CHS shooting, SC legislature will not be meeting tomorrow. @wis10 #scpol #sctweets
Updated at 2.18pm AESTUpdated at 2.18pm AEST
2.12pm AEST05:122.12pm AEST05:12
Austin Rich, the local photographer who was handcuffed by officers earlier as he resembled the suspect’s description, has been released, in a case of mistaken identity.Austin Rich, the local photographer who was handcuffed by officers earlier as he resembled the suspect’s description, has been released, in a case of mistaken identity.
He said the police were “just doing their job”.He said the police were “just doing their job”.
Austin Rich says he does not bear any animosity towards police - "They were just doing their job."Austin Rich says he does not bear any animosity towards police - "They were just doing their job."
2.10pm AEST05:102.10pm AEST05:10
Suspect descriptionSuspect description
A reminder of the description issued by Charleston police earlier tonight.A reminder of the description issued by Charleston police earlier tonight.
The suspect is still at large.The suspect is still at large.
He is described as a white male, aged around 21, slender and clean-shaven.He is described as a white male, aged around 21, slender and clean-shaven.
He was said to be wearing a gray sweatshirt, blue jeans and Timberland boots.He was said to be wearing a gray sweatshirt, blue jeans and Timberland boots.
2.06pm AEST05:062.06pm AEST05:06
As we await the press conference, local pastors have been praying close to the scene for those affected:As we await the press conference, local pastors have been praying close to the scene for those affected:
Pastors praying in front of the crime scene. pic.twitter.com/f22K8jWUHmPastors praying in front of the crime scene. pic.twitter.com/f22K8jWUHm
2.00pm AEST05:002.00pm AEST05:00
We are expecting the police press conference soon, close to the scene of the shooting:We are expecting the police press conference soon, close to the scene of the shooting:
Police chief Greg Mullen and Mayor Joe Riley are being briefed and will speak soon #chsnewsPolice chief Greg Mullen and Mayor Joe Riley are being briefed and will speak soon #chsnews
2.00pm AEST05:002.00pm AEST05:00
ABC News – which has a livestream from Charleston here – has shown these images of the interior of the church, taken before today’s shooting.ABC News – which has a livestream from Charleston here – has shown these images of the interior of the church, taken before today’s shooting.
It’s a historic church, and the current building dates to 1891.It’s a historic church, and the current building dates to 1891.
1.53pm AEST04:531.53pm AEST04:53
Police in Charleston have confirmed there is a bomb threat but say they are not asking residents to leave their homes.Police in Charleston have confirmed there is a bomb threat but say they are not asking residents to leave their homes.
Police have not asked anyone to evacuate their homePolice have not asked anyone to evacuate their home
1.48pm AEST04:481.48pm AEST04:48
There are reports locally that Clementa Pinckney, the church pastor and Democratic member of the South Carolina Senate, was at the church at the time of the shooting.There are reports locally that Clementa Pinckney, the church pastor and Democratic member of the South Carolina Senate, was at the church at the time of the shooting.
We have no further information on his condition, or that of any of the church members who were present when the gunman attacked.We have no further information on his condition, or that of any of the church members who were present when the gunman attacked.
I will bring you that information once it is confirmed.I will bring you that information once it is confirmed.
Black Caucus Spokesman: Sen. Clementa Pinckney was at church and was involved. #sctweets #wis10 #charlestonshooting pic.twitter.com/2SRc9Cecv6Black Caucus Spokesman: Sen. Clementa Pinckney was at church and was involved. #sctweets #wis10 #charlestonshooting pic.twitter.com/2SRc9Cecv6
The Emanuel church website says:The Emanuel church website says:
Rev. Pinckney was elected to the South Carolina House of Representatives in 1996 at the age of twenty-three. In 2000, he was elected to the State Senate at the age of twenty-seven.Rev. Pinckney was elected to the South Carolina House of Representatives in 1996 at the age of twenty-three. In 2000, he was elected to the State Senate at the age of twenty-seven.
He is one of the youngest persons and the youngest African-American in South Carolina to be elected to the State Legislature. He represents Jasper, Beaufort, Charleston, Colleton, and Hampton Counties …He is one of the youngest persons and the youngest African-American in South Carolina to be elected to the State Legislature. He represents Jasper, Beaufort, Charleston, Colleton, and Hampton Counties …
He and his wife Jennifer have two children – Eliana and Malana.He and his wife Jennifer have two children – Eliana and Malana.
1.39pm AEST04:391.39pm AEST04:39
Reporters on the scene say they are being asked to move away from Calhoun Street, the site of the shooting, with some suggestion of a possible bomb threat.Reporters on the scene say they are being asked to move away from Calhoun Street, the site of the shooting, with some suggestion of a possible bomb threat.
This, like so many details so far, has not been confirmed and it would not be unusual for police to clear the area after such an incident, and with a suspect on the loose.This, like so many details so far, has not been confirmed and it would not be unusual for police to clear the area after such an incident, and with a suspect on the loose.
Barriers have been erected now to keep people away from the scene of the shooting:Barriers have been erected now to keep people away from the scene of the shooting:
Downtown is eerily empty- majority of folks gathered at Meeting and Calhoun, barricades are up #chsnews pic.twitter.com/VuaCKNGoHoDowntown is eerily empty- majority of folks gathered at Meeting and Calhoun, barricades are up #chsnews pic.twitter.com/VuaCKNGoHo
1.37pm AEST04:371.37pm AEST04:37
State senator Marlon Kimpson told the local newspaper, the Post and Courier, that he understood “that there are some very serious injuries and possibly deaths”.“I ask the nation to keep Charleston in our prayers,” he said.State senator Marlon Kimpson told the local newspaper, the Post and Courier, that he understood “that there are some very serious injuries and possibly deaths”.“I ask the nation to keep Charleston in our prayers,” he said.
Updated at 2.20pm AESTUpdated at 2.20pm AEST
1.35pm AEST04:351.35pm AEST04:35
Calhoun Street near the church in downtown Charleston. #chsnews pic.twitter.com/AoX9YvERHrCalhoun Street near the church in downtown Charleston. #chsnews pic.twitter.com/AoX9YvERHr
1.33pm AEST04:331.33pm AEST04:33
I understand there will be a police briefing fairly soon, at which we might expect to hear some details of any fatalities or injuries.I understand there will be a police briefing fairly soon, at which we might expect to hear some details of any fatalities or injuries.
So far, despite media reports of multiple deaths inside the church, nothing has been confirmed by authorities.So far, despite media reports of multiple deaths inside the church, nothing has been confirmed by authorities.
1.29pm AEST04:291.29pm AEST04:29
Local reporters said the FBI and the county coroner were on the scene, along with Charleston police:Local reporters said the FBI and the county coroner were on the scene, along with Charleston police:
FBI now on scene #chsnewsFBI now on scene #chsnews
Multiple people shot at Emanuel AME Church. Coroner on scene. Shooter description white male 21 years gray sweatshirt clean shaven @WCBDMultiple people shot at Emanuel AME Church. Coroner on scene. Shooter description white male 21 years gray sweatshirt clean shaven @WCBD
1.26pm AEST04:261.26pm AEST04:26
There were earlier reports that a man fitting the description of the suspect had been arrested – this turned out to be a false alarm, says my colleague Erin McCann:There were earlier reports that a man fitting the description of the suspect had been arrested – this turned out to be a false alarm, says my colleague Erin McCann:
Police briefly detained a man who appeared to match the description of the shooter, a slender white male with a gray sweatshirt, sparking rumours on social media that the manhunt was over.Police briefly detained a man who appeared to match the description of the shooter, a slender white male with a gray sweatshirt, sparking rumours on social media that the manhunt was over.
He was tentatively identified as a local photographer, and the search continued.He was tentatively identified as a local photographer, and the search continued.
@DarciWLTX That's Adam Rich a Charleston photographer@DarciWLTX That's Adam Rich a Charleston photographer
Updated at 5.25pm AESTUpdated at 5.25pm AEST
1.23pm AEST04:231.23pm AEST04:23
The Charleston Post and Courier reports that several streets are closed as police officers conduct their search.The Charleston Post and Courier reports that several streets are closed as police officers conduct their search.
The church where the shooting took place is on Calhoun Street; this and neighbouring roads including Henrietta Street and Marion Square are the focus of the search. (See the map below.)The church where the shooting took place is on Calhoun Street; this and neighbouring roads including Henrietta Street and Marion Square are the focus of the search. (See the map below.)
1.16pm AEST04:161.16pm AEST04:16
Presidential candidate Hillary Clinton was in Charleston earlier on Wednesday, and a number of political journalists following her campaign are now on the scene of the shooting and police search:Presidential candidate Hillary Clinton was in Charleston earlier on Wednesday, and a number of political journalists following her campaign are now on the scene of the shooting and police search:
Helicopters circling overhead by church, some bystanders in shock were led by police away into hotel across street. pic.twitter.com/AJvHNkzjwwHelicopters circling overhead by church, some bystanders in shock were led by police away into hotel across street. pic.twitter.com/AJvHNkzjww
"Right now it's a very bad time," says pastor John Paul Brown of neighboring Mt Zion Church as he leaves scene through police tape"Right now it's a very bad time," says pastor John Paul Brown of neighboring Mt Zion Church as he leaves scene through police tape
1.13pm AEST04:131.13pm AEST04:13
My colleague Erin McCann has some background on the church targeted in tonight’s attack:My colleague Erin McCann has some background on the church targeted in tonight’s attack:
The Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church is the oldest such house of worship in the American south. It is one of the oldest and largest black congregations south of Baltimore, according to its website.The Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church is the oldest such house of worship in the American south. It is one of the oldest and largest black congregations south of Baltimore, according to its website.
Its congregation is led by the Reverend Clementa Pinckney, a Democratic representative in the state senate.Its congregation is led by the Reverend Clementa Pinckney, a Democratic representative in the state senate.
The church was burned in the 1820s during an investigation into a slave rebellion, according to a church history.The church was burned in the 1820s during an investigation into a slave rebellion, according to a church history.
Its worship services went underground from 1834, when black worship was outlawed, until 1865, when the American civil war ended. It has stood at its present site since 1872.Its worship services went underground from 1834, when black worship was outlawed, until 1865, when the American civil war ended. It has stood at its present site since 1872.
Updated at 1.49pm AESTUpdated at 1.49pm AEST
1.08pm AEST04:081.08pm AEST04:08
There is very little official information so far, as police concentrate their efforts on tracking down the suspect.There is very little official information so far, as police concentrate their efforts on tracking down the suspect.
It has been reported that a bible study group was meeting in the church at the time of the shooting.It has been reported that a bible study group was meeting in the church at the time of the shooting.
I should stress that at this point we cannot confirm media reports that a number of people have been killed.I should stress that at this point we cannot confirm media reports that a number of people have been killed.
Updated at 2.22pm AESTUpdated at 2.22pm AEST
1.05pm AEST04:051.05pm AEST04:05
This map shows the location of the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church, Charleston’s historic black church.This map shows the location of the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church, Charleston’s historic black church.
1.00pm AEST04:001.00pm AEST04:00
What we know so farWhat we know so far
Claire PhippsClaire Phipps
A gunman has opened fire at a church in Charleston, South Carolina, and was still at large, a police official has said.A gunman has opened fire at a church in Charleston, South Carolina, and was still at large, a police official has said.
Charleston Police Department spokesman Charles Francis told Reuters the shooting occurred at the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church around 9pm local time.Charleston Police Department spokesman Charles Francis told Reuters the shooting occurred at the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church around 9pm local time.
He said police were still searching for a suspect.He said police were still searching for a suspect.
The suspect was described as a white male, slender, aged around 21, wearing a grey sweatshirt, jeans and boots. He was clean-shaven.The suspect was described as a white male, slender, aged around 21, wearing a grey sweatshirt, jeans and boots. He was clean-shaven.
Suspect in shooting on Calhoun St is a w/m approx 21 slender small build wearing a grey sweat shirt blue jeans timberland boots clean shavenSuspect in shooting on Calhoun St is a w/m approx 21 slender small build wearing a grey sweat shirt blue jeans timberland boots clean shaven
There have been media reports of possible fatalities in the attack, but this has not been confirmed.There have been media reports of possible fatalities in the attack, but this has not been confirmed.
The website for the church said it has one of the largest and oldest black congregations in the region.The website for the church said it has one of the largest and oldest black congregations in the region.
We will have updates on this live blog as the situation unfolds.We will have updates on this live blog as the situation unfolds.