KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) - Police in Tennessee are trying to learn
why an apparent stranger entered a crowded Knoxville church and
opened fire yesterday.
Two people were killed, including an usher hailed as a hero for
shielding others from gunfire.
Five other people remain hospitalized in critical and serious
condition. Two others were treated and released.
The gunman's motive is not known, but a witness says he shouted
"hateful words" before opening fire at the Unitarian Universalist
church.
A neighbor says the 58-year-old was known to speak often about
his parents, and that he said they forced to him to attend church
"all his life."
Jim Adkisson has been charged with first-degree murder and is
being held on one-million dollars bail. Prosecutors say he was
arraigned last night.
The FBI is assisting in case the attack turns out to be a hate
crime.
Authorities say the attack came as children were performing a
musical at the church. No children were hurt by gunfire.
(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
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