Authorities on Sunday confirm that one person was killed and five more were critically injured in a shooting at a California church. The Orange County Sheriff’s office said that a suspect was detained at the scene of the shooting, which took place at Geneva Presbyterian Church at 1:26 p.m. PDT. Deputies said a gun that may have been used in the fatal incident has been recovered. However, a motive for the shooting is still unclear. Federal agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives were also involved in the investigation of the shooting.
The Orange County Fire Authority said it was on the scene treating victims and transporting patients to hospitals. California Gov. Gavin Newsom said the state was actively monitoring the situation and working closely with law enforcement, adding: “No one should have to fear going to their place of worship. Our thoughts are with the victims, community, and all those impacted by this tragic event.”
Tom Cramer, Presbytery head of staff, said in a statement Sunday: “The Presbytery of Los Ranchos is deeply saddened by a fatal shooting that occurred at a lunch reception honoring a former pastor of the Taiwanese congregation that nests at Geneva Presbyterian Church in Laguna Woods. Please keep the leadership of the Taiwanese congregation and Geneva in your prayers as they care for those traumatized by this shooting.”
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