Two people are dead after a shooting at a gym in Virginia, according to police.
Officers responded to the shooting at OneLife Fitness, a gym and health club in southwest Alexandria, at about 4 p.m. on Saturday, according to the Alexandria Police Department. Two people, including the alleged shooter, initially had life-threatening injuries and were taken to the hospital, police said.
Both the male victim and the accused shooter were pronounced dead by police Saturday night. OneLife Fitness said neither man was an employee of the gym.
At the time of the shooting, about 60 people were inside and fled through the building’s front and back exits, according to local news outlets.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic events that occurred on Saturday at our Alexandria location. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of the people involved,” OneLife Fitness said in a statement.
The cause of both men’s deaths will be determined by the medical examiner’s office, police said. The department did not immediately respond to a request for comment on what led to the shooting.
The shooting is under investigation by Alexandria police.
A tragic incident unfolded at a gym in Virginia, leaving two individuals dead, including the suspected shooter. The fatal shooting occurred at the gym located in a bustling commercial area, sending shockwaves through the community and raising concerns about safety and security.
According to reports from authorities, the shooting took place in the early morning hours when the gym was relatively quiet. Witnesses described hearing gunshots and seeing people running out of the building in a state of panic. Police responded to the scene quickly and were able to apprehend the suspected shooter, who was found with a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The two individuals who lost their lives in this senseless act of violence have been identified as gym employees. Both were beloved members of the community and their deaths have left a void in the hearts of their friends, family, and colleagues. The suspected shooter has been described as a disgruntled former employee who had a history of conflict with his coworkers.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy, questions have arisen about what could have been done to prevent such a horrific event. Some have called for increased security measures at public places like gyms, while others have emphasized the importance of addressing mental health issues and workplace conflicts before they escalate to violence.
In response to the shooting, the gym has announced that it will be implementing new safety protocols and providing counseling services for employees and members affected by the incident. The community has also come together to offer support and condolences to the families of the victims, demonstrating resilience in the face of tragedy.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and proactive measures to prevent violence in our communities. It is a sobering wake-up call that we must prioritize safety and security in all aspects of our lives, from our workplaces to our public spaces. As we mourn the loss of two lives taken too soon, let us also commit to creating a safer and more peaceful world for all.
