Amarillo Police say Suspect Shot, Apparently Dead

Amarillo police say at least one person was taken hostage by a male suspect inside a local Wal-Mart as police responded to a reported shooting at the store.

    

Police Sgt. Brent Barbee said in an email that "one or more hostages" were taken hostage late Tuesday morning during what police called a "workplace violence-type event." Police said earlier Tuesday that the suspect was shot by officers and "is apparently dead," though no updates have been provided.

    

Wal-Mart spokesman Brian Nick released a statement saying store associates and customers are safe. Nick thanked officers, saying: "This was a very difficult situation and we are thankful for the quick response from law enforcement."

Police said earlier Tuesday that officers responded amid reports of an armed person inside who may have had hostages.

    

Authorities didn't immediately say what may have prompted the incident in Amarillo, a city in the Texas Panhandle. Some nearby streets were closed as a precaution.

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