9 killed in mass shooting in Dayton, Ohio entertainment district

Police responded to a mass shooting near a bar in Dayton, Ohio early Sunday morning. The incident happened near Ned Peppers Bar on East Fifth Street in the Oregon District, according to WHIO.

According to police, suspect Connor Stephen Betts, 24, was wearing a mask, a bulletproof vest, hearing protection, and armed with .233 caliber rifle with a 100 round drum magazine as he shot into the crowded entertainment district.

9 victims could have died, and 27 were wounded, according to police.

Police are currently investigating the attack and seeking witnesses.

Dayton police Lt. Col. Matt Carper told the press there was “a very short timeline of violence.”

“We’re very fortunate for that,” he said. “We had officers in the immediate vicinity when this shooting began and were able to respond and put an end to it quickly.”

Mayor Nan Whaley said that officers on routine patrol of the busy area were able to intercept the shooter.

At a press conference, Dayton police said that Betts was engaged within 20 seconds, and shot within 30. Dramatic video played at the press conference showed Betts falling to the ground after being shot right outside of Ned Peppers Bar.

Betts reportedly brought another gun that he left in his parked car. He shot one in a patio area adjacent to the busy street, before going on to shoot others, including his sister, who he killed, and her male companion who was injured.

Police say there was nothing that would have prevented Betts from purchasing the guns legally.

At least 16 patients were brought to Miami Valley Hospital, according to a spokesperson who spoke to The New York Times.

According to hospital officials, 12 have been released, four were hospitalized, and one is in critical condition.

A post on the bar’s Instagram page stated everyone was safe and their “hearts go out to everyone involved.”

The incident occurred less than 24 hours after a mass shooting killed 20 people and injured more than two dozen others at a Walmart in El Paso, Texas.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.