A woman has been shot during the chaos inside the Capitol in Washington, DC after pro-Trump rioters stormed the building.
Multiple reports emerged of a person being shot before a video was posted to Twitter showing the incident. In the footage a shot is heard before people scatter and the victim is seen lying on the floor.
Those nearby rush to her aid, and heavily armed law enforcement personnel move forward loudly reporting the news of an active shooter, appearing to focus their attention beyond a doorway.
MSNBC reports that the victim is in critical condition and has been rushed to hospital by the emergency services. Five other people have also been taken to hospital.
During live footage aired earlier in the afternoon, a woman seen on TV being rushed through the crowd on a stretcher by paramedics.
CNN reports that multiple officers have been injured, but the nature and severity of their injuries remains unclear.
What was billed to be a contentious day politically with the ceremonial announcement of the electoral college results being challenged descended into mayhem as pro-Trump rioters stormed the nation’s legislature.
Rioters raced through hallways and forced their ways into both the House and Senate chambers. Donald Trump was silent during the onset of the violence, even after earlier stoking a large rally protesting his election loss.
Eventually he tweeted: “I am asking for everyone at the US Capitol to remain peaceful. No violence! Remember, WE are the Party of Law & Order – respect the Law and our great men and women in Blue. Thank you!”
Rioters remained in and around the Capitol when the president eventually released a video statement moments after remarks from President-elect Joe Biden were televised.
Mr Biden referred to the rioters as having committed insurrection.
Source: Independent