12 people killed in California bar shooting

The incident happened inside of the Borderline Bar & Grill in Thousand Oaks

THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. – At least 12 people—including a responding deputy—were killed after a gunman opened fire in a bar in Thousand Oaks, California on Wednesday night.

The Ventura County Sheriff's Office also said the gunman was found dead inside of the bar. 

Police responded to reports of a mass shooting at the Borderline Bar & Grill during a College Country Nights event. The first reports of shots fired came in around 11:20 p.m.

For the latest updates: At least 12 killed in California bar shooting

Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Captain Garo Kuredijan said at a news conference that responding deputies could hear gunshots as they arrived on scene. They entered the bar through the front door of the business, then an officer was shot.

Sheriff's Sgt. Ron Helus later died at the hospital. He was a 29 year veteran of the force. 

The FBI is responding to the incident. At this time, the suspect and the motive have not been identified. 

Witnesses say a man fired several shots from a handgun before tossing smoke bombs, then he continued to fire.

The extent of the victims’ injuries is unknown at this time. 

A hotline has been set up for family members attempting to contact their loved ones, the number to call is (805) 465-6650.

Thousand Oaks is located in Ventura County, which is west of Los Angeles.