9 Dead Following Shooting In San Jose California

9 people are dead following a mass shooting in San Jose California yesterday. The incident started around 6:30 a.m. when first responders received multiple calls of shots fired near a Valley Transportation Authority control center. The shooting occurred when the light rail was starting up for the day and a shift change was being made. Deputy Russell Davis of the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office said multiple law enforcement agencies and fire departments responded to the scene using ‘active shooter protocol’ and law enforcement officers did not exchange gunfire with the gunman leading investigators to believe he took his own life. The VTA is a public transit service that operates bus and light rail services in the Santa Clara Valley.

The gunman was identified as Samuel Cassidy. He was caught on video leaving his home before the shooting. His home also caught fire a little after he left. According to Mayor Sam Liccardo, the ‘victims and all colleagues knew the shooter well.” 8 of the victims died on the scene and a 9th was taken to the hospital where they later died. The victims range in age from 29 to 63 and were identified by the county coroner. Investigators are looking into the motive of the shooting. The victims will be honored tonight at an event at the San Jose City Hall Plaza.