An on-air reporter and cameramen for US publisher WDBJ7 have been shot during a live broadcast by who reports are describing was a “disgruntled employee”.
Reporter Alison Parker and photographer Adam Ward were reportedly conducting a live broadcast in the early morning in Virginia in the States.
Officials believe the gunman, who allegedly opened fire on the duo, was a man named Vester Flanagan who was a former employee for the media company, according to WDBJ7.
Police in the area have said Flanagan has died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
A full release from the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office is available on the WDBJ7 article.
WDBJ7 has also included a banner-type image remembering Ward and Parker, tweeting out prayers, thanks for the support and memories of the two.
Alison and Adam always had a fun time together. Here are some behind-the-scenes pictures. http://t.co/bglHxG2jXC pic.twitter.com/X74EflXqlz
— WDBJ7 (@WDBJ7) August 26, 2015
We love you, Alison and Adam. pic.twitter.com/hLSzQi06XE — WDBJ7 (@WDBJ7) August 26, 2015
Your words, calls, emails mean more than we can express. A very sincere thank you for your support. http://t.co/nyyzWDaePo
— WDBJ7 (@WDBJ7) August 26, 2015
Vicki Gardner, a member for the Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce (where the shooting occurred), was also injured and is recovering in hospital. Social media has erupted in outrage, horror and sadness at the circumstances, with many calling America to bring the gun law debate to the forefront again.
From all of us at #ACA9; our thoughts & prayers are with the entire @WDBJ7 team & the friends & family of Alison & Adam. A terrible tragedy.
— A Current Affair (@ACurrentAffair9) August 26, 2015
My heart goes out to the two journalists who were shot in Virginia this morning. My show airs on @WDBJ7 every day. Sending love to you all.
— Ellen DeGeneres (@TheEllenShow) August 26, 2015
Praise for the #WDBJ victims from the station’s general manager, via @CNNSitroom: https://t.co/KtNhnjjQoD — CNN (@CNN) August 26, 2015
Difficult story to cover today: the shooting of 2 fellow journalists. #WDBJ, we stand with you & send our deepest condolences. @KING5Seattle
— Amanda Grace (@AmandaGraceK5) August 26, 2015
Heavy heart for #WDBJ today, working in PR teaches you to be thankful for reporters, events like today teach you to respect them as well — Rebecca Weinstein (@RebWeinstein) August 26, 2015
this shooting makes me sick. our country needs to get a hold on mental illness, these shootings need to stop. #WDBJ
— s a m (@classicaylen) August 26, 2015
Lead image via WDBJ7.
