Shooting targeted Republican leader in US House of Representatives

The Republican majority leader of the US House of Representatives and his aides were shot by a gunman while playing baseball in Virginia.

US House Majority Leader Steve Scalise. Photo: Baton Rouge Business Report

US House Majority Leader Steve Scalise was shot in the hip by a rifleman on the morning of June 14 in Alexandria, Virginia while playing baseball with aides and colleagues.

Four of Mr. Scalise's aides were also injured in the shooting, including one who was shot in the chest, Fox News reported.

Congressman Mo Brooks said the suspect fired 50-100 shots, using the terrain of the football field as cover.

The attacker was shot dead by Capitol Police and taken to hospital. US Senator Mike Lee said he was dead.

President Donald Trump wrote on Twitter: "Congressman Steve Scalise of Louisiana, a true patriot and friend, was seriously injured but will make a full recovery." Mr. Trump sent his thoughts and prayers to Mr. Scalise.

Scalise is the first US congressman to be shot since former congresswoman Gabby Giffords was shot in the head by suspect Jared Lee Loughner at an event in Tucson, Arizona, in January 2011. Mr. Giffords was the main target of the attack and survived, but six people were killed and 12 were injured in the incident. Loughner was sentenced to life in prison without parole in 2012.

According to VNE