Parkland school shooting: What we know

Authorities name Nikolas Cruz as suspect; at least 17 people killed

PARKLAND, Fla. – Multiple people were killed and more than a dozen people were wounded Wednesday when a gunman began shooting inside Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland. 

Latest updates:

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  • Armed school resource deputy was at high school, but never encountered Cruz.,
  • All families have been notified of loved ones who died.
  • Several victims remain in critical condition, at least one is still intubated.
  • Governor Scott met with families at hospitals.
  • FBI confirms it had investigated "disturbing" comment from Nikolas Cruz in 2017 saying he'd become a "professional school shooter."
  • All Broward County high schools are on "Code Yellow" for precautionary measures, but no threats at this time.

What we know:

  • At least 17 people have been killed, according to Broward County Sheriff Scott Israel. 
  • At least 17 people were taken to area hospitals for treatment of injuries.
  • Shots were fired just before 2:30 p.m. as students were preparing to leave school.
  • The suspect, Nikolas Cruz, is in custody. Israel said he was 19 years old and a former student at Marjory Stoneman Douglas. He was expelled for disciplinary reasons.
  • Students described Cruz as "psycho" and "racist." They said Cruz killed small animals in the past.
  • Deputies arrested Cruz without incident about an hour after the shooting in Coral Springs. Cruz was transported to Broward Health North Medical Center where he was treated for unknown injuries. He has since been taken to the Broward Sheriff's Office headquarters.
  • Israel said Cruz used an AR-15 rifle.
  • Video of the shooting was shared on social media, showing students hiding as multiple gunshots were heard.
  • Before the shooting, the gunman pulled a fire alarm, sending many students outside of the school. Other students remained inside the building until deputies gave the all clear.
  • ABC News is reporting that Cruz fled after the shooting, blending in as students evacuated the building.
  • Cruz's mother died of the flu in November, her cousin told ABC News. Kathie Blaine also said Cruz was autistic and his adopted father died of a heart attack 13 years ago.
  • OneBlood is asking eligible O negative donors to please visit a donor center or Big Red Bus blood drive and donate. Appointments are encouraged and can be made online by visiting oneblood.org.
  • The school campus is very large and has about 3,000 student enrolled.
  • All Broward County school athletic events on Wednesday have been canceled. Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School will be closed Thursday and Friday.