13 feared dead in shooting in US

Apr 3 2009

Up to 13 people were killed and 26 others injured when a man armed with a high-powered rifle opened fire in New York state, according to US reports.

A senior law enforcement official told ABC News 13 people were shot dead and 26 wounded in the incident at an immigration services centre in Binghamton, about 150 miles north-west of New York City.

US officials said the man, believed to be in his 20s, was armed with a high-powered rifle and the incident started at about 10.30 local time (3.30pm BST).

A witness told Fox News a local police officer told her 13 people were dead.

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

"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," he said.

"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."

Witnesses told a local TV news station two Asian men were taken out of the building, both handcuffed.

Police SWAT teams remain at the scene.

FBI spokesman Richard Kolko said the agency was sending hostage negotiators and an evidence response team to the scene. The FBI also called for a Vietnamese translator, according to reports.