Charleston Police Release Photo Of Suspected Shooter Who Killed 6 Women, 3 Men At Historic Church

Police have labeled Wednesday night’s attack on a historically Black church that left nine dead a hate crime.

At about 9:00 PM EDT Wednesday night a man police describe as white, 21-25 years old, slender build, sandy blond hair opened fire in one of the nation’s most historic churches, killing six women and three men. There were reportedly three survivors.

EARLIER TODAY: ‘Senseless, Unfathomable Hate Crime’: Cops Confirm 9 Dead In Charleston Historic Black Church Attack

Charleston Police have released an image of the suspect, above.

According to Chief of Police Gregory Mullen, the suspect had entered the church an hour earlier, where members of a bible study group were holding a meeting and praying.

Chief Mullen at a 1:00 AM press conference described the act as a “hate crime,” “senseless,” and “unfathomable.” Local, regional, and national law enforcement are involved, including the FBI.

Among the dead are Reverend Clementa Pinckney, a 41-year old South Carolina Democratic state senator and the pastor of the 19th century church. 

At a 7:00 AM press conference, Mullen again said, “There is no doubt in my mind that this is a hate crime.”

“This tragedy that we’re addressing right now is indescribable,” Mullen said. “The law enforcement agencies that are working on this are committed and we will capture this individual.”

Calling the suspect a “very dangerous individual” who should not be approached, Mullen said the massacre is “a situation that is unacceptable in any society, especially in our society, our city.”

It’s important to note this church has been central to the cvil rights movement for centuries.