An employee at a bank in Louisville, Kentucky, opened fire and livestreamed the incident on Instagram, killing five people.
The victims ranged in age from 40 to 64. A rookie police officer who had only joined the department two weeks prior was one among the nine people hurt.
After brain surgery, the officer who was shot in the head is still in critical condition.
Within three minutes, police arrived and engaged the assailant with gunfire, killing him.
At around 8:30 local time, a gunshot occurred at the Old National Bank in the heart of the city (12:30 GMT).
At around 8:30 local time, a gunshot occurred at the Old National Bank in the heart of the city (12:30 GMT).
According to Caleb Goodlett, his wife, a bank employee, barricaded herself inside the vault as the attack started.
Several witnesses gave accounts of witnessing the gunfight between the police and the lone assailant.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear said an “incredible friend” of his, Tommy Elliot, a senior vice-president at the bank, was among the victims.
“Tommy Elliott helped me build my law career, helped me become governor, gave me advice on being a good dad,” said Mr Beshear.
The victims have all been identified:
- Thomas Elliot, 63
- James Tutt, 64
- Joshua Barrick, 40
- Julianna Farmer, 45
- Deana Eckert, 57
The policeman who was shot in the head was identified as Louisville Metro officer Nickolas Wilt, 26.