What was supposed to be a fun night quickly turned into a tragedy. A gunman opened fire at a Colorado movie theater, killing 12 and injuring at least 50 others. The gunfire erupted during a shootout scene in “The Dark Knight Rises.”
The gunman was wearing a bulletproof vest and opened fire from the front of the theater during “The Dark Knight Rises.” He also released a canister of tear gas. The police have identified the gunman as 24 year-old James Holmes. Holmes was wearing a bulletproof vest and carried a rifle, handgun and knife.
Since many people who attended the midnight showing of “The Dark Knight Rises” were dressed in Batman-related costumes, no one thought anything of the black-clad 6-foot tall man wearing a riot helmet, goggles and bulletproof vest. Moviegoers thought the attack was a part of the show, until a gun was pointed at them.
In New York, the NYPD plans to increase security at local theaters screening “The Dark Knight Rises.” Police Commissioner Ray Kelly said the reinforced efforts are “a precaution against copycats and to raise the comfort levels among movie patrons in the wake of the horrendous shooting in Colorado.”
Many celebrities have taken to Twitter to express their shock and condolences.
Chris Evans wrote, “What the hell is happening?? My heart is completely shattered. All my thoughts and prayers are with the people of Aurora.”
Olivia Munn tweeted, “My sincerest condolences to the victims and families in Colorado. So sad, so mindless.”
LeBron James said, “Its just not fair that innocent people have to lose their lives over someone’s selfish stupidity acts! My stomach is hurting over this.”
In lieu of the shooting, Warner Bros. cancelled the Paris premiere of the film as well as all media interviews and promotional appearances with the cast. “The Dark Knight Rises” Paris premiere was supposed to take place on Friday night. They made a statement, “Warner Bros. and the filmmakers are deeply saddened to learn about this shocking incident. We extend our sincere sympathies to the families and loved ones of the victims at this tragic time.”
“The Dark Knight Rises” is the latest in the popular Batman franchise by Warner Bros.
