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Sacramento Church Shooting: California dad kills 3 daughters, 1 other before killing self

So far, a possible motive for the shooting had not been released but the sheriff's office said it was a case of domestic violence

A California father shot dead four people including his three young daughters aged nine, ten, and thirteen along with a children's chaperone at a church in Sacramento on Monday, February 28. The 39-year-old suspect whose name hasn't been released died by suicide after shooting at the church located on the outskirts of the California state capital in the Arden Mall area of the city.

Office of the Governor of California tweeted, "We are actively monitoring the shooting at a church in Sacramento and working closely with local law enforcement. Our thoughts are with the community, parishioners, and all those impacted by this horrific event." Emergency services were alerted after an employee at the church who was upstairs heard gunshots and called 911.

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The incident started at around 5:10 pm on Monday when officers were called to the 'The Church in Sacramento', reported ABC10. Sheriff Scott Jones said the shooter was estranged from the children’s mother, who had a restraining order against him. The officials said all the victims died at the scene. It wasn't immediately known how many people were at the church or if there were any services or activities at the time of the shooting. The church is known to hold Bible study classes for children and teens, although none were scheduled for Monday, February 28. 

Sheriff's Office spokesperson, Sgt Rod Grassman said he did not know if the family members belonged to the church, which sits on a mostly residential block near a commercial area east of downtown Sacramento, CBS13 reported. So far, a possible motive for the shooting had not been released but the sheriff's office said it was a case of domestic violence. 

California Governor Gavin Newsom tweeted about the incident, "Another senseless act of gun violence in America – this time in our backyard. In a church with kids inside. Absolutely devastating. Our hearts go out to the victims, their families and their communities. We are working closely with local law enforcement. Our thoughts are with the community, parishioners, and all those impacted by this horrific event." 

The Mayor of Sacramento, Darrell Steinberg also tweeted, "This is an unspeakable tragedy. It happens too often, and tonight it happened in our backyard. First thoughts are with the victims and their families. Same to the first responders who have to confront such a horrible scene. Will say more as we learn more." 

Video images from the scene showed a heavy police presence outside the church in the Arden-Arcade area outside the city limits. Sacramento Mayor Pro Tem Eric Guerra on Twitter said, "Please be aware and on the look out. Local law enforcement are responding to a mass casualty shooting event in the county at a church on 2041 Wyda way" before adding "Please be alert while in the area as local law enforcement responds."

The Sacramento County Sheriff's Department told the public to avoid the area because of the large police presence and said it was establishing a command post in the area. 

The investigation is ongoing.