SW News: Bishop Edward Burns of Dallas offered his grief and prayers for the victims of a mass shooting that killed as many as 9 persons at a Texas shopping mall. Seven people were injured and three were still critical from the attack as of Sunday morning.

The prelate posted on his Twitter accounts that with a heavy heart, the Catholic community prays for the families who have lost loved ones in the shooting in Allen, Texas. The bishop exhorted everyone to defend the sanctity of life and put an end to violence.

At approximately 4 pm, emergency calls started to flood in soon after the initial shots were fired. Social media users shared pictures of people escaping the onslaught by running and scurrying. Police killed the attacker on the spot. Several youngsters, including a five-year-old, are among the deceased. Texas Governor Greg Abbott described the attack as an "unspeakable tragedy" and also said that his heart goes out to the people of Allen. He later joined a community vigil to honor the victims.

Mauricio Garcia has been named as the suspect in Saturday's horrific mall shooting. The suspect's age, residence, and car all match the information provided by law enforcement.

Garcia was last seen at a motel about 30 miles south of the Dallas shooting at Allen Premium Outlets. Abbott said that the assailant served in the US Army but was removed because of mental health concerns.

"We are horrified by today's senseless tragedy and outraged by the violence that continues to plague our country. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and others affected by this heinous act. We are thankful for the police officer’s heroic actions and for the support of all the first responders," Simon Property Group, which owns Allen Premium Outlets, said in a statement.