Pretext For More Gun Control? Gunman Kills Up To 13 In New York Attack

Sky News
Friday, April 3, 2009

A lone gunman armed with a high-powered rifle has killed up to 13 people and injured up to 26 others in Binghamton, New York state.

The gunman, named as Jiverly Voong, 42, parked his car blocking the doors to an immigration services centre before going in at the main entrance and opening fire.

He then held dozens of people hostage in the American Civic Centre before turning the gun on himself and committing suicide.

All hostages are now freed from the attack, which commenced at around 10.30am local time (3.30pm BST).

Voong, 42, also known as Linh Phat Voong, was from Johnson City in upstate New York.

Reports said he burst into the civic centre wearing a bright green nylon jacket and dark-rimmed glasses.

His body was later found with a hunting knife concealed in his trousers.

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New York Governor David Paterson said it was a “tragic day for New York”.

He said: “While the situation is still developing and details are being gathered, we do know that a gunman entered the American Civic Association in Binghamton this morning and that there are fatalities.

“We are monitoring the situation and I have directed the State Police to assist the Binghamton Police Department in any way they can. I speak for all of New York when I offer my prayers for the victims and families of this tragedy.”

Hospital spokeswoman Christina Boyd said the Wilson Medical Centre in Johnson City was treating five people with gunshot wounds.

The wounded ranged in age from 20 to their mid-50s, and their conditions ranged from stable to critical, she said.

Full story here.

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