U.S. stands in solidarity with Germany following deadly Munich shooting
WASHINGTON (Originally published by Talk Media News) – President Barack Obama told White House reporters during a Friday afternoon press conference that the United States stands in solidarity with Germany following reports of a deadly mass shooting at a Munich McDonalds.
“Our hearts go out to those who may have been injured,” Obama said. “It’s still an active situation and Germany is one of our closest allies.” So we are gonna pledge all the support that they may need in dealing with these circumstances.”
The President also praised law enforcement during his remarks. Obama said news of the attack should serve to reinforce universal appreciation for police officers as well as others who risk their lives everyday to keep ordinary citizens safe.
“It’s a good reminder of something that I’ve said over the last couple of weeks,” Obama said. “Which is: our way of life, our freedoms, our ability to go about our business everyday; raising our kids and seeing them grow up-it depends on the men and women in uniform every single day who are under some of the most adverse circumstances imaginable at times making sure to keep us safe.”
Following the President’s remarks German police reported that at least nine people had been killed when a gunman fired shots inside the fast food restaurant in what appeared to be a terrorist-style attack. Police later tweeted that the suspected shooter committed suicide following the attack.
The shooting occurred in close proximity to what was once the site of the 1972 Olympic village where 11 Israeli athletes were held hostage and subsequently murdered by the Palestinian terrorist group Black September.
Early Saturday Munich police told reporters that the suspected shooter was a mentally disturbed teenager not affiliated with any particular terrorist organization. As of yet police have not revealed the identity of the suspected shooter.
Update: Late Saturday police identified the suspected shooter as 18-year-old German-Iranian Ali Sonboli. Police also said that the death toll had risen to ten and that 27 others are reported injured.
Photo courtesy of www.whitehouse.gov
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