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Charleston shooting: 'May God forgive you', victims' families tell Dylann Roof – live updates Charleston shooting: 'May God forgive you', victims' families tell Dylann Roof – live updates
(35 minutes later)
3.39pm ET20:39
New details of shootings released
Some new details of Wednesday night’s events are beginning to emerge from the arrest warrants just released. Among the details are:
3.11pm ET20:113.11pm ET20:11
Mullen warns that the flow of information will no longer be as quick as it was during the manhunt for Roof. He says the police force will not jeopardize the successful prosecution of Roof by giving out too much information, since the investigation is still ongoing.Mullen warns that the flow of information will no longer be as quick as it was during the manhunt for Roof. He says the police force will not jeopardize the successful prosecution of Roof by giving out too much information, since the investigation is still ongoing.
Updated at 3.11pm ETUpdated at 3.11pm ET
3.09pm ET20:093.09pm ET20:09
Wilson will not be taking questions. Charleston police chief Mullen is now speaking.Wilson will not be taking questions. Charleston police chief Mullen is now speaking.
Updated at 3.18pm ETUpdated at 3.18pm ET
3.09pm ET20:093.09pm ET20:09
Wilson recounts a phone call she received from senator Pinckney, in which he expressed support for her team’s work. She said she and her staff will take inspiration from Pinckney’s call during Roof’s prosecution.Wilson recounts a phone call she received from senator Pinckney, in which he expressed support for her team’s work. She said she and her staff will take inspiration from Pinckney’s call during Roof’s prosecution.
Her priority are the victim’s families, she says. “They need the time and space to mourn and to grieve, and we will give them that.”Her priority are the victim’s families, she says. “They need the time and space to mourn and to grieve, and we will give them that.”
“Now is not the time to discuss the death penalty.”“Now is not the time to discuss the death penalty.”
Updated at 3.17pm ETUpdated at 3.17pm ET
3.08pm ET20:083.08pm ET20:08
Prosecutor Wilson is now speaking.Prosecutor Wilson is now speaking.
“We will serve justice.”“We will serve justice.”
“I know it’s frustrating for yall, but as we move through this, the rules are different [in this case.]” And she mentions the rules limit her from stating certain details of the case.“I know it’s frustrating for yall, but as we move through this, the rules are different [in this case.]” And she mentions the rules limit her from stating certain details of the case.
2.53pm ET19:532.53pm ET19:53
Supporters outside the court pic.twitter.com/V3r4lLpuXXSupporters outside the court pic.twitter.com/V3r4lLpuXX
Updated at 2.54pm ETUpdated at 2.54pm ET
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Prosecutor Scarlett A Wilson is expected to address the media shortly.Prosecutor Scarlett A Wilson is expected to address the media shortly.
2.41pm ET19:412.41pm ET19:41
The emotional hearing lasted a total of 13 minutes, but we heard from the judge, family members of the shooting victims and from the suspect himself.The emotional hearing lasted a total of 13 minutes, but we heard from the judge, family members of the shooting victims and from the suspect himself.
Roof alternated between looking straight at the camera and down at his feet, expressing no emotion as consecutive family members of the victims continued to stand and offer the man – who allegedly murdered their sons, mothers and grandfathers – forgiveness.Roof alternated between looking straight at the camera and down at his feet, expressing no emotion as consecutive family members of the victims continued to stand and offer the man – who allegedly murdered their sons, mothers and grandfathers – forgiveness.
#CharlestonShooting suspect Dylann Roof enters room for bond hearing pic.twitter.com/y9lxh6SYQx#CharlestonShooting suspect Dylann Roof enters room for bond hearing pic.twitter.com/y9lxh6SYQx
Updated at 2.57pm ETUpdated at 2.57pm ET
2.32pm ET19:322.32pm ET19:32
On the nine counts of murder, the judge says he does not have the authority to set bond.On the nine counts of murder, the judge says he does not have the authority to set bond.
On the weapons charge, he sets bond for $1m.On the weapons charge, he sets bond for $1m.
2.31pm ET19:312.31pm ET19:31
No representative of the Pinckney family is present to speak. The statements from the family members conclude.No representative of the Pinckney family is present to speak. The statements from the family members conclude.
Updated at 2.34pm ETUpdated at 2.34pm ET
2.31pm ET19:312.31pm ET19:31
The sister of DePayne Middleton-Doctor says:The sister of DePayne Middleton-Doctor says:
I’m a work in progress and I acknowledge that I’m very angry. [DePayne] taught that we are the family that love built. We have no room for hate. So we have to forgive. I pray God for your soul. May God bless you.I’m a work in progress and I acknowledge that I’m very angry. [DePayne] taught that we are the family that love built. We have no room for hate. So we have to forgive. I pray God for your soul. May God bless you.
Updated at 2.33pm ETUpdated at 2.33pm ET
2.30pm ET19:302.30pm ET19:30
Alana Simmons, the granddaughter of Daniel Simmons, speaks next:Alana Simmons, the granddaughter of Daniel Simmons, speaks next:
Although my grandfather and the other victims died at the hands of hate, this is proof that they lived and loved.Although my grandfather and the other victims died at the hands of hate, this is proof that they lived and loved.
Hate won’t win.”Hate won’t win.”
Updated at 2.33pm ETUpdated at 2.33pm ET
2.29pm ET19:292.29pm ET19:29
Roof is simply staring at the ground throughout.Roof is simply staring at the ground throughout.
Felicia Sanders, Tywanza Sanders’s mother, speaks:Felicia Sanders, Tywanza Sanders’s mother, speaks:
We welcomed you Wednesday night to our Bible study. Every fibre in my body hurts. And I’ll never be the same. Tywanza is my son, but he was my hero. But as we say in bible study, may God have mercy on your soul.We welcomed you Wednesday night to our Bible study. Every fibre in my body hurts. And I’ll never be the same. Tywanza is my son, but he was my hero. But as we say in bible study, may God have mercy on your soul.
Updated at 2.30pm ETUpdated at 2.30pm ET
2.28pm ET19:282.28pm ET19:28
Myra Thompson’s relative, Anthony Thompson speaks, addressing Roof:Myra Thompson’s relative, Anthony Thompson speaks, addressing Roof:
We would like you to take this opportunity to repent. Repent. Confess. Give you life to Christ. So that he can change it. So that you can change your ways no matter hast happened to you, and you’ll be OK.We would like you to take this opportunity to repent. Repent. Confess. Give you life to Christ. So that he can change it. So that you can change your ways no matter hast happened to you, and you’ll be OK.
Updated at 2.29pm ETUpdated at 2.29pm ET
2.26pm ET19:262.26pm ET19:26
The judge asks whether there are any family members of the victims present, as they are allowed to make a statement to the court. Members are present from the families of Sharonda Singleton and Ethel Lance.The judge asks whether there are any family members of the victims present, as they are allowed to make a statement to the court. Members are present from the families of Sharonda Singleton and Ethel Lance.
Ethel Lance’s daughter addresses Roof:Ethel Lance’s daughter addresses Roof:
I forgive you. You took something very precious from me. But I forgive you. Have mercy on your soul. You hurt me. You hurt a lot of people. May God forgive you. And I forgive you.I forgive you. You took something very precious from me. But I forgive you. Have mercy on your soul. You hurt me. You hurt a lot of people. May God forgive you. And I forgive you.
Updated at 2.28pm ETUpdated at 2.28pm ET
2.24pm ET19:242.24pm ET19:24
Roof can be seen staring blankly at the ground, as the judge reads the list of charges.Roof can be seen staring blankly at the ground, as the judge reads the list of charges.
When addressed by the judge, he looks up at the camera.When addressed by the judge, he looks up at the camera.
The judge tells Roof that his first court date is set for 23 October at 2pm. His second court appearance date: 5 February 2016 at 9am.The judge tells Roof that his first court date is set for 23 October at 2pm. His second court appearance date: 5 February 2016 at 9am.
Roof is told he has the right to a preliminary hearing. The judge now asks Roof questions, to clarify his age, his address and whether he is unemployed.Roof is told he has the right to a preliminary hearing. The judge now asks Roof questions, to clarify his age, his address and whether he is unemployed.
Roof answers quietly but politely, addressing the judge as “Sir.”Roof answers quietly but politely, addressing the judge as “Sir.”
He says he is 21 and he is unemployed.He says he is 21 and he is unemployed.
Updated at 2.26pm ETUpdated at 2.26pm ET
2.22pm ET19:222.22pm ET19:22
Dylann Roof bond hearing pic.twitter.com/6xVDI0QGBnDylann Roof bond hearing pic.twitter.com/6xVDI0QGBn
2.21pm ET19:212.21pm ET19:21
The judge says to the court, as Roof watches via video link:The judge says to the court, as Roof watches via video link:
Charleston is a very strong community. We have big hearts. We are a very loving community and we are going to reach to everyone, all victims and we will touch them.Charleston is a very strong community. We have big hearts. We are a very loving community and we are going to reach to everyone, all victims and we will touch them.
We have victims, nine of them, but we also have victims on the other side. There are victims on this side of this young man’s family.We have victims, nine of them, but we also have victims on the other side. There are victims on this side of this young man’s family.
We must find it in our heart to not only help those who are victims but to also help his family as well.We must find it in our heart to not only help those who are victims but to also help his family as well.
Updated at 2.23pm ETUpdated at 2.23pm ET
2.20pm ET19:202.20pm ET19:20
The judge has entered the courtroom.The judge has entered the courtroom.
The suspect can be seen via video link, accompanied by two guards.The suspect can be seen via video link, accompanied by two guards.
Updated at 2.23pm ETUpdated at 2.23pm ET
2.07pm ET19:072.07pm ET19:07
The Guardian’s Oliver Laughland sends these updates from outside the courthouse:The Guardian’s Oliver Laughland sends these updates from outside the courthouse:
Outside the the Centralized Bond Hearing Court in North Charleston, family members arrived in small groups for the hearing scheduled to start at 2pm.Outside the the Centralized Bond Hearing Court in North Charleston, family members arrived in small groups for the hearing scheduled to start at 2pm.
Some held hands and all were escorted by Charleston County Deputies in the sweltering 95 degree heat. None stopped to talk to the large crowd of media. The court is surrounded by officers who earlier had deployed a bomb squad and K-9 units to walk the perimeter of the facility.Some held hands and all were escorted by Charleston County Deputies in the sweltering 95 degree heat. None stopped to talk to the large crowd of media. The court is surrounded by officers who earlier had deployed a bomb squad and K-9 units to walk the perimeter of the facility.
Dylann Roof is being held at the adjacent detention Center and will appear via videolink before Judge James Gosnell on nine counts of murder and firearms charges. Gosnell does not have the authority to set bond due to the severity of the charges.Dylann Roof is being held at the adjacent detention Center and will appear via videolink before Judge James Gosnell on nine counts of murder and firearms charges. Gosnell does not have the authority to set bond due to the severity of the charges.
The small courtroom is expected to be so packed with family members that a second courtroom with video link is being made available to reporters before the hearing begins.The small courtroom is expected to be so packed with family members that a second courtroom with video link is being made available to reporters before the hearing begins.
Updated at 2.08pm ETUpdated at 2.08pm ET
1.59pm ET18:591.59pm ET18:59
While we wait for Dylann Roof to appear in court, my colleague Amanda Holpuch spent the morning in Columbia, where Roof lived as recently as march:While we wait for Dylann Roof to appear in court, my colleague Amanda Holpuch spent the morning in Columbia, where Roof lived as recently as march:
No one answered the door on Friday at the home in Eastover, North Carolina, where Roof lived as recently as March. Lush plants, a stately American flag and a private property warning sign stood outside the property, which stands about 100 miles away from the site of the mass killing at the historic Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church.No one answered the door on Friday at the home in Eastover, North Carolina, where Roof lived as recently as March. Lush plants, a stately American flag and a private property warning sign stood outside the property, which stands about 100 miles away from the site of the mass killing at the historic Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church.
“He just seemed real quiet and kept to himself,” said Kim Fleming, manager of Mr Bunkys, the general store across the street on Garner’s Ferry Road, a two-lane highway that is a popular route to South Carolina’s coast. Fleming said she had met Roof several times. “I just couldn’t believe it was someone walking around here,” she said of the shooting. “This is not the norm.”“He just seemed real quiet and kept to himself,” said Kim Fleming, manager of Mr Bunkys, the general store across the street on Garner’s Ferry Road, a two-lane highway that is a popular route to South Carolina’s coast. Fleming said she had met Roof several times. “I just couldn’t believe it was someone walking around here,” she said of the shooting. “This is not the norm.”
Read the full dispatch here.Read the full dispatch here.
1.35pm ET18:351.35pm ET18:35
Family members of the Emanuel church shooting victims are arriving at the courthouse:Family members of the Emanuel church shooting victims are arriving at the courthouse:
Family members of #CharlestonShooting now arriving at courthouse, escorted by deputies from Charleston County pic.twitter.com/2hOsfnKcfLFamily members of #CharlestonShooting now arriving at courthouse, escorted by deputies from Charleston County pic.twitter.com/2hOsfnKcfL
Family continues to arrive at bond court #chsnews #CharlestonShooting pic.twitter.com/xpNtkvMeZaFamily continues to arrive at bond court #chsnews #CharlestonShooting pic.twitter.com/xpNtkvMeZa
1.32pm ET18:321.32pm ET18:32
SummarySummary
Here’s an updated summary on what we know so far:Here’s an updated summary on what we know so far:
1.15pm ET18:151.15pm ET18:15
ABC4 reporter Stacy Jacobson reports that Roof is locked up in a cell next to Michael Slager – the police officer charged with killing unarmed black man Walter Scott:ABC4 reporter Stacy Jacobson reports that Roof is locked up in a cell next to Michael Slager – the police officer charged with killing unarmed black man Walter Scott:
Per @ChasCoSheriff, Dylann Roof is in a maximum security cell next to cell of Michael Slager, officer charged with killing #WalterScott.Per @ChasCoSheriff, Dylann Roof is in a maximum security cell next to cell of Michael Slager, officer charged with killing #WalterScott.
Updated at 1.32pm ETUpdated at 1.32pm ET
1.14pm ET18:141.14pm ET18:14
Meanwhile, out on the campaign trail, Republican presidential candidate Jeb Bush said Friday he didn’t know if the Charleston shooting was racially motivated, writes my colleague Sabrina Siddiqui:Meanwhile, out on the campaign trail, Republican presidential candidate Jeb Bush said Friday he didn’t know if the Charleston shooting was racially motivated, writes my colleague Sabrina Siddiqui:
“It was a horrific act and I don’t know what the background of it is, but it was an act of hatred,” Bush told The Huffington Post. When pressed again, he still would not say.“It was a horrific act and I don’t know what the background of it is, but it was an act of hatred,” Bush told The Huffington Post. When pressed again, he still would not say.
“I don’t know. Looks like to me it was, but we’ll find out all the information,” Bush said. “It’s clear it was an act of raw hatred, for sure. Nine people lost their lives, and they were African-American. You can judge what it is.”“I don’t know. Looks like to me it was, but we’ll find out all the information,” Bush said. “It’s clear it was an act of raw hatred, for sure. Nine people lost their lives, and they were African-American. You can judge what it is.”
Earlier Friday, Bush spoke at the Faith and Freedom Coalition conference in Washington, DC, an annual gathering of social conservatives. During his remarks, the former Florida governor paid tribute to the victims in Charleston.Earlier Friday, Bush spoke at the Faith and Freedom Coalition conference in Washington, DC, an annual gathering of social conservatives. During his remarks, the former Florida governor paid tribute to the victims in Charleston.
“I don’t know what was on the mind or the heart of the man who committed these atrocious crimes, but I do know what was in the heart of the victims,” Bush said in his speech. “They were praying. They were learning and studying the word of the Lord. In times like these, in times of great of national mourning, people of faith, all of us must come together and at least reflect on this and fortify our strength and love of Christ, love of God to be able to continue to go forth.”“I don’t know what was on the mind or the heart of the man who committed these atrocious crimes, but I do know what was in the heart of the victims,” Bush said in his speech. “They were praying. They were learning and studying the word of the Lord. In times like these, in times of great of national mourning, people of faith, all of us must come together and at least reflect on this and fortify our strength and love of Christ, love of God to be able to continue to go forth.”
Bush added that the shooting had a “big impact” on him and called on the audience to “continue to bear witness to the truths that God acts through us.”Bush added that the shooting had a “big impact” on him and called on the audience to “continue to bear witness to the truths that God acts through us.”
Bush was scheduled to campaign in Charleston on Thursday but canceled his events there immediately after news of the shooting emerged.Bush was scheduled to campaign in Charleston on Thursday but canceled his events there immediately after news of the shooting emerged.
Updated at 1.25pm ETUpdated at 1.25pm ET
1.02pm ET18:021.02pm ET18:02
“A little bit of racism is a dangerous thing,” Brooks says, to reporters’ questions at the press conference.“A little bit of racism is a dangerous thing,” Brooks says, to reporters’ questions at the press conference.
12.57pm ET17:5712.57pm ET17:57
“When are we going to turn things around?”, Randolph says.“When are we going to turn things around?”, Randolph says.
He tells those thousands of African-American South Carolinians who are not registered to vote, that they ought to be ashamed of themselves, before encouraging everyone to register to vote in the next presidential election.He tells those thousands of African-American South Carolinians who are not registered to vote, that they ought to be ashamed of themselves, before encouraging everyone to register to vote in the next presidential election.
“Control what you can control,” Randolph says of voting in presidential elections, including the removal of the confederate flag.“Control what you can control,” Randolph says of voting in presidential elections, including the removal of the confederate flag.
12.52pm ET17:5212.52pm ET17:52
Brooks has turned the mic over to Dr Lonnie Randolph Jr, the NAACP state president for South Carolina.Brooks has turned the mic over to Dr Lonnie Randolph Jr, the NAACP state president for South Carolina.
12.51pm ET17:5112.51pm ET17:51
The NAACP stands with the families of these victims, with this church.The NAACP stands with the families of these victims, with this church.
Leaves the crowd with this thought: the NAACP is 160 years old. “We were founded in the wake and in response to a former racialized violence called lynching,” Brooks says. “In 2015, we are fighting, racial profiling, injustice in the criminal justice system. We will fight against this form of racial bigotry and violence, because we believe in this country and our constitution. And we believe this crime does not represent us.”Leaves the crowd with this thought: the NAACP is 160 years old. “We were founded in the wake and in response to a former racialized violence called lynching,” Brooks says. “In 2015, we are fighting, racial profiling, injustice in the criminal justice system. We will fight against this form of racial bigotry and violence, because we believe in this country and our constitution. And we believe this crime does not represent us.”
“This is not who we are.”“This is not who we are.”
“We wil stand together in this moment of crisis.”“We wil stand together in this moment of crisis.”
12.48pm ET17:4812.48pm ET17:48
“We have to ask ourselves the question of, is this a matter of a lone shooter with a singular hatred?”, Brooks said. “Is the right terminology a lone shooter or a domestic terrorist?”“We have to ask ourselves the question of, is this a matter of a lone shooter with a singular hatred?”, Brooks said. “Is the right terminology a lone shooter or a domestic terrorist?”
“This was an act of racial terrorism and must be treated as such.”“This was an act of racial terrorism and must be treated as such.”
12.47pm ET17:4712.47pm ET17:47
NAACP national president says confederate flag must come down from state capitolNAACP national president says confederate flag must come down from state capitol
Brooks says the nation must examine the racial hate underlying the shooting.Brooks says the nation must examine the racial hate underlying the shooting.
This wasn’t just a shooting, said the NAACP leader, but a mass shooting: “This was a racial hate crime and must be confronted as such.”This wasn’t just a shooting, said the NAACP leader, but a mass shooting: “This was a racial hate crime and must be confronted as such.”
South Carolina should not have the confederate flag waving in the state capitol, Brooks says.South Carolina should not have the confederate flag waving in the state capitol, Brooks says.
Some will assert that the confederate flag is merely a symbol of years gone by – a symbol of heritage, not hate. But when we see that symbol lifted up as an emblem of hate ... as an inspiration of violence, that symbol has to come down. That symbol has to be removed from our state capitol.Some will assert that the confederate flag is merely a symbol of years gone by – a symbol of heritage, not hate. But when we see that symbol lifted up as an emblem of hate ... as an inspiration of violence, that symbol has to come down. That symbol has to be removed from our state capitol.
Tensions over the flag that hangs at the state capitol have been renewed since the shooting, as my colleague Tom McCarthy reports.Tensions over the flag that hangs at the state capitol have been renewed since the shooting, as my colleague Tom McCarthy reports.
Updated at 1.04pm ETUpdated at 1.04pm ET
12.44pm ET17:4412.44pm ET17:44
Brooks said this is a time for Americans to come to grips with its values and reckon with its policies.Brooks said this is a time for Americans to come to grips with its values and reckon with its policies.
“While there is a climate of caring, there is also an atmosphere of hate. If these exist side by side ... unless we address the underlying racial animus of this crime, we miss the point.”“While there is a climate of caring, there is also an atmosphere of hate. If these exist side by side ... unless we address the underlying racial animus of this crime, we miss the point.”
12.43pm ET17:4312.43pm ET17:43
“This tragedy hits close to home,” Brooks said.“This tragedy hits close to home,” Brooks said.
“We come to this place at this moment, in this historic city,” a city in which he said he spent a lot of time as a child as his grandfather and uncle owned barbershops not too far from Charleston. He grew up nearby in Georgetown.“We come to this place at this moment, in this historic city,” a city in which he said he spent a lot of time as a child as his grandfather and uncle owned barbershops not too far from Charleston. He grew up nearby in Georgetown.
The idea that a pastor can gather his flock, to study the Bible in his church, he said, “in that place, in that moment” a stranger who was extended the hand of welcome, welcomed into the house of God could spend an hour in fellowship and study, and take up a gun and lay 9 people into untimely graves - tragic deaths - is “unconscionable” .The idea that a pastor can gather his flock, to study the Bible in his church, he said, “in that place, in that moment” a stranger who was extended the hand of welcome, welcomed into the house of God could spend an hour in fellowship and study, and take up a gun and lay 9 people into untimely graves - tragic deaths - is “unconscionable” .
“It is morally incomprehensible. It is a flesh and blood obscenity in our midst.”“It is morally incomprehensible. It is a flesh and blood obscenity in our midst.”
We as a nation, are quite simply hocked by this crime. That it toko place in God’s house, in the holy city of Charleston, North Carolina. “It is a living breahing contradictionWe as a nation, are quite simply hocked by this crime. That it toko place in God’s house, in the holy city of Charleston, North Carolina. “It is a living breahing contradiction
This crime, is not merely crime perpetuated against a church, a pastor, against nine congregants. It is a hate crime.This crime, is not merely crime perpetuated against a church, a pastor, against nine congregants. It is a hate crime.
This is a hate crime, he said. “We are all as such victims.”This is a hate crime, he said. “We are all as such victims.”
“This is a moment where those who indoctrinated, jho ;ed this young man down a racist path” who taught him to embellish his car with a confederate flag, which is still at the state capitol, he notes . “This is a moment in which we say to them, that White Nationalist movement, the purveyors of hate,” he said. “We as Americans of every hue and heritage, will not subscribe to this hate.” We will not be turned around by the religion of hatred.“This is a moment where those who indoctrinated, jho ;ed this young man down a racist path” who taught him to embellish his car with a confederate flag, which is still at the state capitol, he notes . “This is a moment in which we say to them, that White Nationalist movement, the purveyors of hate,” he said. “We as Americans of every hue and heritage, will not subscribe to this hate.” We will not be turned around by the religion of hatred.
“When wednesday night bible study reconvenes, you will find us there.”“When wednesday night bible study reconvenes, you will find us there.”
Updated at 12.43pm ETUpdated at 12.43pm ET
12.35pm ET17:3512.35pm ET17:35
Cornell Brooks is now speaking.Cornell Brooks is now speaking.
12.34pm ET17:3412.34pm ET17:34
The NAACP press conference has started. Charleston Chapter President Dot Scott and NAACP National president Cornell Brooks will speakThe NAACP press conference has started. Charleston Chapter President Dot Scott and NAACP National president Cornell Brooks will speak
12.23pm ET17:2312.23pm ET17:23
Despite 24 hours of national grieving over the killing of nine churchgoers in Charleston, momentum toward fresh gun-control legislation remained at a near-standstill in Washington on Friday, write my colleagues Sabrina Siddiqui and Dan Roberts:Despite 24 hours of national grieving over the killing of nine churchgoers in Charleston, momentum toward fresh gun-control legislation remained at a near-standstill in Washington on Friday, write my colleagues Sabrina Siddiqui and Dan Roberts:
White House officials claimed all possible presidential efforts had been “exhausted” after previous mass shootings and said Barack Obama did not anticipate action from Congress either, since he was “very realistic about the political realities”.White House officials claimed all possible presidential efforts had been “exhausted” after previous mass shootings and said Barack Obama did not anticipate action from Congress either, since he was “very realistic about the political realities”.
“If you go back to 2013, when the president worked very hard to exhaust every possible avenue to tackle this issue – in fact, we completed 23 executive actions – we didn’t leave anything in the cupboard on steps that we could take to address this,” spokesman Eric Schultz told reporters as Obama travelled to a political fundraiser in Los Angeles.“If you go back to 2013, when the president worked very hard to exhaust every possible avenue to tackle this issue – in fact, we completed 23 executive actions – we didn’t leave anything in the cupboard on steps that we could take to address this,” spokesman Eric Schultz told reporters as Obama travelled to a political fundraiser in Los Angeles.
Schultz’s comments were even gloomier than Obama’s had been during a brief statement on Thursday responding to the mass killings, in which he said the country would have to reckon with gun violence “at some point” but acknowledged that the “politics in this town foreclose[d] a lot of those avenues right now”.Schultz’s comments were even gloomier than Obama’s had been during a brief statement on Thursday responding to the mass killings, in which he said the country would have to reckon with gun violence “at some point” but acknowledged that the “politics in this town foreclose[d] a lot of those avenues right now”.
Read their full report here.Read their full report here.
The Guardian’s Erin McCann writes that Obama’s gloom might have to do with the fact that the president has had to address an incident of mass shooting more than a dozen times during his presidency:The Guardian’s Erin McCann writes that Obama’s gloom might have to do with the fact that the president has had to address an incident of mass shooting more than a dozen times during his presidency:
After Arizona, where congresswoman Gabby Giffords was shot in the head, he spoke of hope. After Newtown, where 20 children and six teachers were shot dead in their classrooms, he spoke of a nation’s broken heart. On Thursday, after nine people were shot dead in a church in Charleston, he spoke of despair.After Arizona, where congresswoman Gabby Giffords was shot in the head, he spoke of hope. After Newtown, where 20 children and six teachers were shot dead in their classrooms, he spoke of a nation’s broken heart. On Thursday, after nine people were shot dead in a church in Charleston, he spoke of despair.
There are other shootings where Obama has remained silent, or not engaged with issue of guns or the cause of an event. But when he has, the president’s responses have varied from anger to exasperation to sadness, nearly every time vowing that such events must not happen again.There are other shootings where Obama has remained silent, or not engaged with issue of guns or the cause of an event. But when he has, the president’s responses have varied from anger to exasperation to sadness, nearly every time vowing that such events must not happen again.
Read her full piece here.Read her full piece here.
11.57am ET16:5711.57am ET16:57
Michelle Obama has spoken out about the deadly Charleston church shooting while visiting military families at the Vicenza Air Base in Italy.Michelle Obama has spoken out about the deadly Charleston church shooting while visiting military families at the Vicenza Air Base in Italy.
“My heart goes out to the people of Emanuel, and to the people of Charleston. I pray for a community that I know is in pain, and with the hope that tragedies like this will one day come to an end.”“My heart goes out to the people of Emanuel, and to the people of Charleston. I pray for a community that I know is in pain, and with the hope that tragedies like this will one day come to an end.”
11.52am ET16:5211.52am ET16:52
My colleague Oliver Laughland is at the courthouse in Charleston, ahead of Roof’s 2pm hearing, where he spoke with April Cox, 29, from North Charleston:My colleague Oliver Laughland is at the courthouse in Charleston, ahead of Roof’s 2pm hearing, where he spoke with April Cox, 29, from North Charleston:
April Cox, 29 from North Charleston has come to hearing to "support Charleston". "I want to see justice," she says: pic.twitter.com/XETDLTSPXFApril Cox, 29 from North Charleston has come to hearing to "support Charleston". "I want to see justice," she says: pic.twitter.com/XETDLTSPXF
“I came here to support Charleston, my community,” Cox said. “I’m here for the victims, I’m here to support them. I want to see justice even though we may not get it today, at this hearing.”“I came here to support Charleston, my community,” Cox said. “I’m here for the victims, I’m here to support them. I want to see justice even though we may not get it today, at this hearing.”
Cox said she did not know any of the victims. She is not sure she will get into the hearing, she said. Family members of the shooting victims are expected to come to the courthouse today.Cox said she did not know any of the victims. She is not sure she will get into the hearing, she said. Family members of the shooting victims are expected to come to the courthouse today.
11.42am ET16:4211.42am ET16:42
The Charleston branch of the NAACP will be holding a press conference at noon:The Charleston branch of the NAACP will be holding a press conference at noon:
Press conference today at NOON with an address from Nat'l President @CornellWBrooks at the branch office - 81 Columbus Street.Press conference today at NOON with an address from Nat'l President @CornellWBrooks at the branch office - 81 Columbus Street.
11.35am ET16:3511.35am ET16:35
Apart from the main vigil which will be held tonight announced by Riley, three other vigils will also be held:Apart from the main vigil which will be held tonight announced by Riley, three other vigils will also be held:
Adventist Community of Metro Charleston, Shiloh SDA ChurchAdventist Community of Metro Charleston, Shiloh SDA Church
East Cooper Baptist Church, Worship CenterEast Cooper Baptist Church, Worship Center
Without Walls Ministry Prayer TentWithout Walls Ministry Prayer Tent
We will update this post with information if more vigils are announced.We will update this post with information if more vigils are announced.
11.26am ET16:2611.26am ET16:26
The mayor’s press conference is now over.The mayor’s press conference is now over.
11.25am ET16:2511.25am ET16:25
Mayor Riley addressed media questions about the nature of race relations in Charleston.Mayor Riley addressed media questions about the nature of race relations in Charleston.
“We in America are never taught African-American history,” Riley said. “We don’t know the story.” He said people are not taught about the history of slavery and the Jim Crow period.“We in America are never taught African-American history,” Riley said. “We don’t know the story.” He said people are not taught about the history of slavery and the Jim Crow period.
Riley said that there is a plan in place to build an International African American Museum in Charleston.Riley said that there is a plan in place to build an International African American Museum in Charleston.
“There are lots of things we can do in our country to enhance the dialogue about race. “To get out of the minds of evil people”, the hateful thoughts, like Roof’s. But Riley concedes it’s very difficult to do so.“There are lots of things we can do in our country to enhance the dialogue about race. “To get out of the minds of evil people”, the hateful thoughts, like Roof’s. But Riley concedes it’s very difficult to do so.
Asked about the racism in his city, Riley said that “Charleston is a loving community,” and one where all different communities live very closely together, for which Charlestonians are grateful.Asked about the racism in his city, Riley said that “Charleston is a loving community,” and one where all different communities live very closely together, for which Charlestonians are grateful.
Roof, Riley reminds the crowd, didn’t grow up in Charleston but came [to Charleston] from 100 miles away. His actions are not representative of this community, he adds.Roof, Riley reminds the crowd, didn’t grow up in Charleston but came [to Charleston] from 100 miles away. His actions are not representative of this community, he adds.
11.19am ET16:1911.19am ET16:19
Asked about Governor Haley’s comments on the death penalty, Mayor Riley says he is not personally a proponent of the death penalty - even though this case would merit it. He said he is of the belief that the death penalty “collectively, over time, adds to the violence.”Asked about Governor Haley’s comments on the death penalty, Mayor Riley says he is not personally a proponent of the death penalty - even though this case would merit it. He said he is of the belief that the death penalty “collectively, over time, adds to the violence.”
But that’s the law in South Carolina, he said, and he has no control over it.But that’s the law in South Carolina, he said, and he has no control over it.
11.18am ET16:1811.18am ET16:18
Riley gave an update on the Mother Emanuel Hope fun, set up to help the families of “the victims to handle the great expenses, as well as the church”. Pinckney had been trying to raise funds to build an elevator in the church.Riley gave an update on the Mother Emanuel Hope fun, set up to help the families of “the victims to handle the great expenses, as well as the church”. Pinckney had been trying to raise funds to build an elevator in the church.
There will be another fund that will allow us to address Pinckney’s projects for the church. (E.g. To repair the church’s steeple), Riley says.There will be another fund that will allow us to address Pinckney’s projects for the church. (E.g. To repair the church’s steeple), Riley says.
He got a call this morning of a $25,000 donation from a foundation. And there has been an outpouring from citizens in the community and from the country at large, he says.He got a call this morning of a $25,000 donation from a foundation. And there has been an outpouring from citizens in the community and from the country at large, he says.
“We are in a period of loving and healing for all those who have been so terribly injured in our hearts by this tragic event.”“We are in a period of loving and healing for all those who have been so terribly injured in our hearts by this tragic event.”
11.13am ET16:1311.13am ET16:13
Mayor Riley is now addressing the media.Mayor Riley is now addressing the media.
Riley praises the community for coming together, for helping each other. A community vigil will be held tonight, around the corner.Riley praises the community for coming together, for helping each other. A community vigil will be held tonight, around the corner.
He says it will be a chance to talk and think about the tragic events and allow the families to be there, within the “bosom of this community” and to “feel the love, support and encouragement”.He says it will be a chance to talk and think about the tragic events and allow the families to be there, within the “bosom of this community” and to “feel the love, support and encouragement”.
Riley says he wanted the vigil to be held in a location close to the site of the shooting.Riley says he wanted the vigil to be held in a location close to the site of the shooting.
Details of the vigil:Details of the vigil:
College of Charleston TD Arena66 George St., CharlestonFriday, June 19, 6 pmCollege of Charleston TD Arena66 George St., CharlestonFriday, June 19, 6 pm
Updated at 11.13am ETUpdated at 11.13am ET
11.09am ET16:0911.09am ET16:09
My colleague Lauren Gambino with more on Roof’s charges:My colleague Lauren Gambino with more on Roof’s charges:
During the hearing, the judge will inform Roof of the nature of the charges against him. Roof is not required to enter a plea during the bond hearing, though if he as confessed as media reports indicate, he may, based on his lawyers’ advice.During the hearing, the judge will inform Roof of the nature of the charges against him. Roof is not required to enter a plea during the bond hearing, though if he as confessed as media reports indicate, he may, based on his lawyers’ advice.
Under South Carolina law, a magistrate cannot set bond for a defendant who has been charged with a capital offense, or an offense that could carry a life sentence. In such cases, bond must be set by a Circuit Court Judge. However, it’s more likely the presiding magistrate judge will deny Roof bail, given the nature of his charges.Under South Carolina law, a magistrate cannot set bond for a defendant who has been charged with a capital offense, or an offense that could carry a life sentence. In such cases, bond must be set by a Circuit Court Judge. However, it’s more likely the presiding magistrate judge will deny Roof bail, given the nature of his charges.
Roof’s case qualifies for the death penalty.Roof’s case qualifies for the death penalty.
11.02am ET16:0211.02am ET16:02
Charleston Mayor Joe Riley will give a press conference in a few minutes, where he is expected to announce details of a prayer vigil held tonight at the TD Arena at 6pm.Charleston Mayor Joe Riley will give a press conference in a few minutes, where he is expected to announce details of a prayer vigil held tonight at the TD Arena at 6pm.
10.43am ET15:4310.43am ET15:43
10.32am ET15:3210.32am ET15:32
Chief Magistrate James Gosnell will preside over Roof’s bond hearing, according to Live5 News police reporter Herve Jacobs.Chief Magistrate James Gosnell will preside over Roof’s bond hearing, according to Live5 News police reporter Herve Jacobs.
Judge JC Nicholson Jr will preside over the case, according to this order obtained by Jacobs:Judge JC Nicholson Jr will preside over the case, according to this order obtained by Jacobs:
Circuit Judge J.C. Nicholson Jr. will preside over the case, per this order. #standwithcharleston @Live5News#chsnews pic.twitter.com/UyGZXjXKSiCircuit Judge J.C. Nicholson Jr. will preside over the case, per this order. #standwithcharleston @Live5News#chsnews pic.twitter.com/UyGZXjXKSi
According to the South Carolina courts website, Judge JC “Buddy” Nicholson. Born in Birmingham, Alabama in 1942, Nicholson attended college in South Carolina, getting his law degree from the University of South Carolina. Nicholson is a retired Lt Colonel who served as a US air force pilot for five years from 1965-1970 and then in the National Guard until 1989.According to the South Carolina courts website, Judge JC “Buddy” Nicholson. Born in Birmingham, Alabama in 1942, Nicholson attended college in South Carolina, getting his law degree from the University of South Carolina. Nicholson is a retired Lt Colonel who served as a US air force pilot for five years from 1965-1970 and then in the National Guard until 1989.
He has been a judge since 1999, and has been Judge of the Tenth Judicial Circuit since 2001.He has been a judge since 1999, and has been Judge of the Tenth Judicial Circuit since 2001.
10.25am ET15:2510.25am ET15:25
A spokeswoman for the Office of the Solicitor of the ninth judicial circuit confirmed to the Guardian that Roof has been charged with nine counts of homicide and the weapons charge.A spokeswoman for the Office of the Solicitor of the ninth judicial circuit confirmed to the Guardian that Roof has been charged with nine counts of homicide and the weapons charge.
10.18am ET15:1810.18am ET15:18
Charges announced against Dylann RoofCharges announced against Dylann Roof
Some details are emerging about the case: According to media reports, Dylann Roof has been charged with 9 counts of murder and possession of a firearm during commission of a violent crime (per Charleston PD).Some details are emerging about the case: According to media reports, Dylann Roof has been charged with 9 counts of murder and possession of a firearm during commission of a violent crime (per Charleston PD).
#CharlestonShooting suspect charged with 9 counts of murder and possession of firearm during commission of violent crime, per @CharlestonPD#CharlestonShooting suspect charged with 9 counts of murder and possession of firearm during commission of violent crime, per @CharlestonPD
The prosecutor in the case is Scarlett A Wilson, a solicitor with the 9th circuit court. Roof will be reportedly be represented by Chief Public Defender Ashley Pennington.The prosecutor in the case is Scarlett A Wilson, a solicitor with the 9th circuit court. Roof will be reportedly be represented by Chief Public Defender Ashley Pennington.
Updated at 10.18am ETUpdated at 10.18am ET
10.05am ET15:0510.05am ET15:05
New questions were emerging on Friday about how Roof acquired the firearm that he allegedly used in the attack at the historic church.New questions were emerging on Friday about how Roof acquired the firearm that he allegedly used in the attack at the historic church.
On Thursday, the day after the attack, Carson Cowles – who identified himself as Roof’s uncle – told Reuters that Roof’s father had recently given him a .45-caliber handgun as a present for his 21st birthday last April.On Thursday, the day after the attack, Carson Cowles – who identified himself as Roof’s uncle – told Reuters that Roof’s father had recently given him a .45-caliber handgun as a present for his 21st birthday last April.
But law enforcement officials familiar with the details of the investigation have told CNN that Roof purchased the gun himself in April:But law enforcement officials familiar with the details of the investigation have told CNN that Roof purchased the gun himself in April:
Investigators have determined that the gun Roof used was a .45 caliber handgun he purchased himself from Charleston gun store in AprilInvestigators have determined that the gun Roof used was a .45 caliber handgun he purchased himself from Charleston gun store in April
What is known, is that Roof has a recent criminal history.What is known, is that Roof has a recent criminal history.
The Lexington county district attorney’s office confirmed that Roof had been charged with possession of a controlled substance in March but the circumstances surrounding that arrest remain unclear. He was also arrested in April for misdemeanour trespassing in Lexington county.The Lexington county district attorney’s office confirmed that Roof had been charged with possession of a controlled substance in March but the circumstances surrounding that arrest remain unclear. He was also arrested in April for misdemeanour trespassing in Lexington county.
9.40am ET14:409.40am ET14:40
The city of North Charleston has announced that flags will fly at half-staff for nine days, in honor of the nine victims of the church shooting:The city of North Charleston has announced that flags will fly at half-staff for nine days, in honor of the nine victims of the church shooting:
Flags will fly at half-staff for nine consecutive days in memory of each victim of the tragedy at Mother Emanuel AME. #CharlestonStrongFlags will fly at half-staff for nine consecutive days in memory of each victim of the tragedy at Mother Emanuel AME. #CharlestonStrong
9.34am ET14:349.34am ET14:34
Roof is scheduled to appear in court today at 2pm, at the Charleston County Centralized Bond Court in North Charleston. He is expected to be charged with nine counts of murder, one for each of his African American victims.Roof is scheduled to appear in court today at 2pm, at the Charleston County Centralized Bond Court in North Charleston. He is expected to be charged with nine counts of murder, one for each of his African American victims.
My colleague Lauren Gambino confirmed with a court clerk that Roof will appear via video link from his jail cell.My colleague Lauren Gambino confirmed with a court clerk that Roof will appear via video link from his jail cell.
This is what will happen during the hearing, via the court’s website:This is what will happen during the hearing, via the court’s website:
First, the defendant is advised of the nature of the charges and is also advised of the rights afforded to him by the law. Second, a bond is set by the magistrate. If a defendant is charged with a capital offense, or one which might be punishable by life imprisonment, however, the magistrate, by law, cannot set the bond. It must be set by a Circuit Court Judge. Also, the magistrate might deny bond in certain cases involving violent crimes.First, the defendant is advised of the nature of the charges and is also advised of the rights afforded to him by the law. Second, a bond is set by the magistrate. If a defendant is charged with a capital offense, or one which might be punishable by life imprisonment, however, the magistrate, by law, cannot set the bond. It must be set by a Circuit Court Judge. Also, the magistrate might deny bond in certain cases involving violent crimes.
Roof is currently being held at the Al Cannon detention center in North Charleston having been flown back to the scene of Wednesday night’s carnage at the Emanuel AME church, writes Ed Pilkington:Roof is currently being held at the Al Cannon detention center in North Charleston having been flown back to the scene of Wednesday night’s carnage at the Emanuel AME church, writes Ed Pilkington:
Authorities said that Roof was being kept in isolation away from other people at the jail. He was also being kept on suicide watch for his own protection, they said.Authorities said that Roof was being kept in isolation away from other people at the jail. He was also being kept on suicide watch for his own protection, they said.
9.26am ET14:269.26am ET14:26
Dylann Roof reportedly confesses to authoritiesDylann Roof reportedly confesses to authorities
The suspect in the shooting has confessed to carrying out the attack, according to media reports, my colleague Ed Pilkington reports from Charleston:The suspect in the shooting has confessed to carrying out the attack, according to media reports, my colleague Ed Pilkington reports from Charleston:
CNN is reporting that it has been told by two law enforcement officials that Dylann Roof has told authorities that he was the shooter. NBC reported the same. The Guardian cannot confirm this.CNN is reporting that it has been told by two law enforcement officials that Dylann Roof has told authorities that he was the shooter. NBC reported the same. The Guardian cannot confirm this.
According to the CNN account, the 21-year-old resident of Columbia, South Carolina, said that his motive had been that he wanted to start a race war.According to the CNN account, the 21-year-old resident of Columbia, South Carolina, said that his motive had been that he wanted to start a race war.
9.24am ET14:249.24am ET14:24
SummarySummary
Hello, and welcome to our liveblog covering the aftermath of the Charleston church shooting.Hello, and welcome to our liveblog covering the aftermath of the Charleston church shooting.
For Twitter updates, follow my colleagues Ed Pilkington (@Edpilkington), Paul Lewis (@PaulLewis) and Oliver Laughland (@oliverlaughland), who are on the ground in Charleston. Amanda Holpuch (@holpuch) is in Columbia.For Twitter updates, follow my colleagues Ed Pilkington (@Edpilkington), Paul Lewis (@PaulLewis) and Oliver Laughland (@oliverlaughland), who are on the ground in Charleston. Amanda Holpuch (@holpuch) is in Columbia.
Here’s are the day’s updates so far:Here’s are the day’s updates so far: