James Holmes, a 24 year-old man wearing a gas mask, riot helmet and bulletproof vest, tossed tear gas into the crowd during a midnight screening of “The Dark Knight Rises” held at the Century 16 Movie Theater, before opening fire. Holmes killed a dozen people and wounded at least 50 others in Aurora, Colorado.

The gunman reportedly entered the theater via an emergency exit, and allegedly did not resist arrest when he was caught by the cops in the parking lot. Holmes’ apartment building was quickly evacuated after he mentioned explosives, however, authorities later determined the building was secure.

Holmes, a drop-out student of the CU School of Medicine at the University of Colorado, used four guns – a rifle, a shotgun, a handgun and an AK-47 firearm. There is no evidence of a second gunman.

In result of this terrible tragedy, security at screenings of the movie in New York and Los Angeles has been increased to avoid copycats. Warner Bros. canceled the red carpet premiere of the movie in Paris, France, and released the following statement:

“Warner Bros. is 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.”

President Barack Obama said in a statement: “Michelle and I are shocked and saddened by the horrific and tragic shooting in Colorado.”

And finally, James Holmes’ family also released a statement asking for privacy: “Our hearts go out to those who were involved in this tragedy and to the families and friends of those involved. We ask that the media respect our privacy during this difficult time.”

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and families affected by this tragedy.