UPDATE: The FBI has said there is “no connection with an international terrorist group” at this time, as of approximately noon Eastern Standard Time.
ISIS has claimed responsibility for the largest mass shooting in modern U.S. history that has left 58 dead and more than 500 others wounded. But ISIS has not yet offered up any evidence or proof.
A statement on the group’s propaganda site, Amaq News Agency, said ISIS claimed the attack and that the shooter, 64-year-old Stephen Paddock, was a “soldier of the Islamic State,” according to a report.
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“The Las Vegas attacker is a soldier of the Islamic State in response to calls to target coalition countries,” the Amaq post said, according to the Independent.
ISIS also said the shooter “converted to Islam several months ago” but did not provide other details.
Amaq News Agency was created by a Syrian journalist who joined ISIS in 2013, and seven others who worked for Halab News Network. The site reportedly has a direct connection with ISIS and receives tips from the terrorist organization.
Reporter Jenan Moussa tweeted Monda: “This is strange. ISIS just claimed Las Vegas attack. Arabic statement says shooter converted to Islam months ago.”
And she also tweeted: “I can confirm that the ISIS statement appeared on ISSI affiliated Amaq news agency. No evidence to back up claim.”
(Twitter)
Late on Sunday night, a gunman killed 58 people and injured another 500 people in what is being called the deadliest mass shooting in modern U.S. history.
(Twitter)
At least 14 of those injured are in critical condition, according to University Medical Center spokeswoman Danita Cohen, the Los Angeles Times reported.
The man, 64-year-old Stephen Paddock, was shooting at the Route 91 Harvest Festival from the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino. Police have said the lone shooter has since been killed.
It was also reported that the shooter killed himself when he was discovered by police.
The country music festival was across from the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino on the Las Vegas Strip. Country star Jason Aldean was performing at the festival when the gunfire erupted.
From video, it appears the shooter had automatic weapons.
Police have apprehended Paddock’s roommate, Marilou Danley.
