A San Diego resident has identified herself as the mother of the man who opened fire at a midnight showing of the The Dark Knight Rises at a theater in Aurora, Colorado.
Speaking with ABC News, Arlene Holmes confirmed that she is the mother of 24-year old James Holmes, who reportedly fired in a theater full of moviegoers, killing at least 12 people and injuring upwards of 50. She expressed worry over her son’s involvement.
“You have the right person,” she said, apparently speaking with no doubt in her words. I need to call the police…I need to fly out to Colorado.”
Arlene Holmes phoned the authorities at around 6 A.M., apparently asking for protection. News crews were found set up outside her home.
The 24-year old Holmes entered the theater through the emergency exit door around 12:30 a.m., wearing a gas mask, according to witnesses. He was armed with at least three weapons, including a rifle, and created a smoke screen by throwing a canister in to the audience before he began shooting, said authorities.
Warner Bros., the studio behind the movie’s production, released a statement.
“Warner Bros. is deeply saddened to learn about this shocking incident,” said the studio. “We extend out sincere sympathies to the families and loved ones of the victims at this tragic time.”
Various celebrities have responded to the shooting via Twitter and Facebook, including President Barack Obama, who has cancelled the rest of his campaign trip in Florida and will be returning to Washington to address the situation.
In response to the movie massacre, the movie’s Paris premiere has been canceled.
