Chattanooga Killings Being Investigated As Domestic Terrorism

(Photo: Gina Mule)

Reporting on yesterday's brutal murders in Chattanooga, Tennessee:

Four Marines were shot dead Thursday after a gunman brazenly opened fire on two  military facilities in Chattanooga,Tennessee. The shooter was also killed and three people -- including a police officer -- were injured, city officials said.  

The injured cop was shot in the ankle, but is recovering, Chattanooga Mayor Andy Berke said. Tennessee Sen. Bob Corker said that one of the persons injured was "fighting for their life," at a press conference late Thursday night.

Muhammad Youssef Abdulazeez, who police have identified as the shooter, allegedly used "numerous guns" when he opened fire at a military recruitment center around 10:45 a.m., authorities said, before driving to a Naval and Marine reserve center about 7 miles away.  [snip]

The situation lasted for about 30 minutes before the gunman was killed. It is unknown whether he shot himself or was shot by police. 

In a statement, Attorney General Loretta Lynch called the shooting a "shameful and cowardly act of violence" and announced the FBI would take the lead in the national security investigation.

"In the days ahead, we intend to work with our partners in law enforcement and the intelligence community to ensure that the American people are protected and that justice is served," she said.

Authorities will investigate the shooting as an act of domestic terrorism, U.S. Attorney Bill Killian said.  

These tragic events never seem to exist in a bubble, but often lead to other acts of violence and retaliation.  Let's hope that's not the case this time.

UPDATE:  A fifth service member has now died from his wounds.