At least 5 dead in Midland-Odessa shootings

[Gman]

Texas shooting: Death toll rises to 7 in gunman's rampage

The death toll rose to seven Sunday after a gunman's rampage that left many more injured following what began as a routine traffic stop Saturday in Odessa, police in the West Texas city said.

Police Chief Michael Gerke, at a news conference Sunday, said the victims ranged in age from 15 to 57. The 22 wounded at 15 crime scenes included three police officers and a 17-month old child, he said.

Gerke said a motive for the carnage was still being investigated. He declined to reveal the identity of the gunman, who Gerke said was armed with an "AR-type" weapon when he was killed in a shootout with police.

"I am not going to give him any notoriety for what he did," an emotional Gerke said. "We will provide that information to you, but not on this public stage."

Gerke said the shooter apparently acted alone, and authorities said there appeared to be no connection to terrorism.

The assault took place one day before a series, of gun law changes in state that ease restrictions on where Texans can carry or store firearms, from foster homes to churches. Abbot said Sunday that solutions are needed to keep guns out of the hands of criminals while securing second amendment rights.

"I have been to too many of these events," Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said. "I am heartbroken by the crying of the people of state of Texas. I am tired of the dying."