A shooting at an LGBTQ club in Colorado Springs killed five people and injured 18 others overnight.
Police said the call came in just a few minutes before midnight, and the establishment, Club Q, called it a “hate attack.” The venue was preparing for a drag brunch to celebrate Transgender Day of Remembrance on Sunday.
Police identified the suspect as Anderson Lee Aldridge, a 22-year-old man. He was injured and subdued, authorities said, after firing with a “long gun.” They are investigating the motive, and the FBI is assisting in the investigation.
Colorado Gov. Jared Polis, who became the first openly gay man in the United States to be elected governor in 2018, said the news was “sickening.”
Colorado Springs Police Department Chief Adrian Vasquez says the suspected shooter, Anderson Lee Aldrich, age 22, entered the club before midnight and immediately started shooting. Vasquez confirms at least 2 customers immediately acted to stop the shooter. Officers arrived on the scene within three minutes of the first call and had the suspect in custody two minutes later.
The suspect is currently being treated at a local hospital.
Police confirm the suspect had two weapons at the time of the shooting but did not elaborate on what type of firearms.
According to the LGBTQ club’s social media accounts, last night featured a 9 p.m. show with a group called Drag Divas.