Dylann Roof, Mass Murder, South Carolina 2015

CHARLESTON, South Carolina – A suspect has been taken into custody in connection with the horrific shooting at the Emanuel AME Church, leaving the community in shock and grief.

According to United States Attorney Benjamin B. Wagner, the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of California, the shooting was an act of domestic terrorism. Wagner participated in a national conference call with other U.S. Attorneys about the incident, led by Vanita Gupta, the Acting Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division, and Bill Nettles, the U.S. Attorney in South Carolina.

The U.S. government has opened a federal hate crime investigation into the shooting, in addition to the murder investigation being pursued by local authorities. The FBI and ATF are working closely with local law enforcement agencies in both investigations.

Wagner stated, ‘Protecting Americans from the threat of terrorism of all types is the top priority of the U.S. government.’ He emphasized that the Attorney General, Loretta Lynch, has stated, and he agrees, that there is no place for acts like these in our country or in civilized society.

The Emanuel AME Church shooting has sent shockwaves throughout the nation, and the federal government is committed to doing all it can to prevent, respond to, and prosecute such crimes. The community is coming together to support the families of the victims and to promote healing and peace.

The investigation is ongoing, and the FBI and ATF are working tirelessly to gather evidence and bring those responsible to justice. The U.S. government will continue to provide support to the community and to the families of the victims as they navigate this difficult time.

The nation mourns the loss of life and sends its condolences to the families of the victims. The Emanuel AME Church shooting is a tragic reminder of the importance of promoting tolerance, understanding, and respect for all individuals.

As the investigation continues, the community will come together to support the families of the victims and to promote healing and peace. The U.S. government is committed to doing all it can to prevent, respond to, and prosecute such crimes and to promote a safer, more just society for all Americans.

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