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Isis Reportedly Claims Responsibility For Las Vegas Shooting

Published

7 years ago

October 2, 2017

Isis just claimed the deadliest shooting in US history.

Police said at least 50 people were killed and 200 wounded when a gunman opened fire on dense crowds at a concert in Las Vegas.

Officials have identified the shooter as Stephen Paddock, a 64-year-old American who had multiple weapons on the 32nd floor of a nearby hotel, where he is believed to have killed himself.

A statement published by the group’s Amaq propaganda agency claimed the attacker was a “soldier of the Islamic State”.

“The Las Vegas attacker is a soldier of the Islamic State in response to calls to target coalition countries,” it said.

Isis also claimed the gunman “converted to Islam several months ago”, without providing more details. Paddock’s religion and lifestyle have not yet emerged elsewhere.

A spokesperson for the FBI said no link to Isis had yet been found in the ongoing investigation.

“As this event unfolds we have determined to this point no connection with an international terrorist group,” he added.

“As this investigation continues we will continue to work with our partners.”

The wording of the release is similar to other attacks that have been inspired, rather than directed, by Isis.

Paddock’s alleged suicide would also differ from the actions of the vast majority of Isis attackers, who seek to be “martyred” in bombings or by security forces, suggesting he had little, if any, guidance from the group.

The claim, which cannot be independently verified, came days after Isis released a speech purporting to be from the group’s leader.

Independent UK