Salvation Army Supports Survivors and Responders After Gunman Attacks Sikh Temple in Wisconsin, USA
SALVATION Army responders were quickly on the scene after a gunman killed six people before losing his own life at a Sikh temple in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA. Stan Kelley, local spokesperson for The Salvation Army, explains: 'The local police received their first call here about 10:30am. The Oak Creek Salvation Army Corps (church) is less than a mile from the Sikh temple, and they were quick to respond. A canteen from the Waukesha, Wisconsin Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) team ... was at the scene by 11am.'
Because there was no clear motive for the shooting the scene was treated as a domestic terrorism incident, with investigators from the several agencies and emergency services converging quickly on the site.
The site was secured by the FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation) until shortly after 6pm, during which time The Salvation Army provided food, drinks and emotional and spiritual support to responders and survivors.
Stan Kelley concluded: 'We have been able to help many people. Now the authorities have the situation under control, feeding and hydration will continue as long as needed. The Salvation Army's EDS team will be able to set up a centre for spiritual and emotional care for any who need help.'
Photographs and further news of the response to this incident, including Salvation Army activity, can be accessed via a slideshow on the Reuters UK website.
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