(MENAFN- Saudi Press Agency) A gunman attempted to set the Mexican Consulate in Austin ablaze and fired more than 100 rounds at downtown buildings early Friday before he died, authorities said.
Austin police identified the shooter as Larry McQuilliams, 49. They said he had a criminal record but didn't elaborate.
Investigators were trying to determine his motives after he began shooting at the consulate, Austin police headquarters, the U.S. courthouse and other locations, AP reported.
'Many, many rounds were fired in downtown Austin,' Police Chief Art Acevedo said. 'With all the people on the streets, we're very fortunate. I give thanks that no one but the suspect is injured or deceased.'
Mexico's Foreign Relations Department issued a statement expressing 'profound concern and condemnation' of the attack, but also said 'there is no evidence the shots were exclusively directed at our facility.'
Acevedo said a sergeant who was holding the reins of two police horses after his patrol shot the gunman just outside the main entrance to police headquarters. But Acevedo said it's not clear if police fatally shot the suspect or if he took his own life.
The entire incident lasted about 10 minutes from the first call, Acevedo said.
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