parkland

On Wednesday, February 14th, 19 year-old Nikolas Cruz opened fire with a semi-automatic rifle at his former high school in Parkland, Florida.

The suspect has been charged with 17 counts of premeditated murder, according to officials.

Cruz was later arrested nearby in Coral Springs, Florida. Hospital officials reported that 14 others were wounded, including five with life-threatening injuries.

House Speaker Paul Ryan issued the following statement:

"This is an unspeakable tragedy. It is nothing short of true evil to attack innocent children. While we now wait to learn more, we are so grateful to law enforcement and all those who brought this horror to an end. Let us all keep the victims in our hearts. A long night lies ahead for many families. Right now, the whole country is standing with the Parkland community."

The shooting suspect had recently been expelled from Douglas and was enrolled at another school in the district, according to the schools superintendent in Broward County, Robert Runcie.

Prior to the shooting tragedy, A YouTube user named "Nikolas Cruz" reportedly posted "I'm going to be a professional school shooter" on the site.