The first official press conference concerning Dark Knight Rises shooter James Holmes just concluded, providing new information on the devastating, fatal occurrence in an Aurora, CO movie theatre Thursday evening.
Aurora Police Chief Dan Oates revealed that James Eagan Holmes, dressed in full ballistic gear, appeared in theater #9 at the Century 16 movie theatres and set off two devices that spewed some kind of irritant or smoke into the crowd.
The first 911 calls flooded local stations at 12:39am MST, with police responding within a minute to a minute of a half, where they encountered Holmes near his white Hyundai in the Theatre’s back parking lot.
71 people were shot. 10 victims died on-scene, while 2 died in area hospitals. Many patients are still in critical condition.
Police found four weapons in total, three inside the movie theater: an AR 15 Assault Rifle, a Remington 12 gauge shotgun, and 40 cal glock handgun. Another 40 cal glock handgun was found in the James’ Hyundai.
When questioned, James Holmes alluded to explosives in his North Aurora apartment, located at 1690 paris street, and upon further investigation authorities discovered the apt was “booby-trapped” with various incendiary and chemical devices connected by apparent trip wires.
It could take hours or days to safely handle the situation, as the ‘sophisticated’ setup is something unfamiliar.
5 buildings, including the apartment complex in question, have been evacuated.
As far as motive goes, or theories as to how James entered the theater are currently NOT being discussed by officials.
We are still reeling from this deplorable act. Again, our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone effected by this senseless, horrifying ordeal.
[Image via AP Images.]