A 68-YEAR-OLD Filipino was among 11 people who died at a mass shooting inside a dance studio in Monterey Park in Los Angeles, California at the weekend, according to the Philippine consulate general.
It issued the statement after verifying the facts with US police, Filipino-Amercian organizations and media.
Most of the victims were seniors. Of those who were shot at by 72-year-old gunman Huu Can Tran, 11 died, while nine more were hurt.
He then drove to another dance studio where police said only the quick actions of a young man who wrestled the weapon off him prevented another slaughter. Mr. Tran shot himself dead after police found his white van hours later.
The Filipino victim’s family had sought privacy after being informed of his passing. The consulate general said it would help his family.
“The consulate general calls on the community to exercise all caution and continue being vigilant during these uncertain times,” it said.
It advised Filipinos to remain aware of the whereabouts of their loved ones and report any suspicious activities to local police. — Alyssa Nicole O. Tan