Maryland: Gunman attacks US newspaper office, 5 killed

Staff at the Capital Gazette building in Annapolis said he shot through a glass door into the newsroom, reported BBC.

The newspaper reportedly received threats on social media in recent times, reports said,

One person has been arrested in connection with the incident so far.

Anne Arundel County Police confirmed the shooting and tweeted: "Shooting Update: Confirm 5 victims killed in shooting at 888 Bestgate Rd. Others injured, # still being confirmed. Shooter in custody. Name to be released at a later time. Bestgate Rd remains closed for several hrs between Generals Hwy/Admiral Dr. please avoid the area."

"Capitol Gazette editor Rob Hiaasen was identified as one of those killed in today’s shooting," his brother Carl Hiaasen told CNN.

Capital Gazette reporters share horror stories:

Reporter Phil Davis tweeted: "Gunman shot through the glass door to the office and opened fire on multiple employees. Can't say much more and don't want to declare anyone dead, but it's bad."

" There is nothing more terrifying than hearing multiple people get shot while you're under your desk and then hear the gunman reload," he said.

Another reporter Danielle Ohl said he has been devastated by the incident.

"For those reaching out with support, I thank you. For those seeking information, I’m not in a position to speak right now.I will say this: The Capital is not a big newsroom. There are about 20 news staffers, a few more advertising. We are close. We are family. I am devastated," he tweeted.

Jimmy DeButts, the editor at the Capital Gazette, tweeted: "Devastated & heartbroken. Numb. Please stop asking for information/interviews. I’m in no position to speak, just know @capgaznews reporters & editors give all they have every day. There are no 40 hour weeks, no big paydays - just a passion for telling stories from our communty."

Politicians express shock:

Maryland governor Larry Hogan tweeted: "Absolutely devastated to learn of this tragedy in Annapolis. I am in contact with County Executive Steve Schuh, and @MDSP is on the scene assisting @AACOPD. Please, heed all warnings and stay away from the area. Praying for those at the scene and for our community."

Democratic senator Chris Van Hollen said: "The Capital Gazette is a local institution and vital to how our community gets our information. While we don’t know what motivated this attack, we must stand together to end the violence."

White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders condemned the attack and tweeted: " Strongly condemn the evil act of senseless violence in Annapolis, MD. A violent attack on innocent journalists doing their job is an attack on every American. Our prayers are with the victims and their friends and families."

The Capital is a daily newspaper published in Annapolis since 1884. Its sister newspaper, The Gazette, is one of the oldest newspapers in America, its origins dates back to the early 18th century.