Suspect Photo Released in Colorado Cinema Massacre

James Eagan Holmes, 24. Photo: University of Colorado Denver

Authorities have identified the suspect in the deadly shooting that took place during the midnight premiere of ‘The Dark Knight Rises’ at a Century 16 movie theater in suburban Denver, Co.  Police say James Eagan Holmes, 24, was acting along when he killed 12 people and injured at least 50 others.  According to a report by CBS news, Holmes has no criminal record in Colorado or in San Diego country where he previously lived.  According to officials from the University of Colorado-Denver Graduate School, Holmes was in the process of withdrawing from a Ph.D. program in Neuroscience. Earlier, university officials had incorrectly said Holmes was in medical school. Police believe Holmes planned the attack well in advance but did not release a statement regarding a possible motive.

Following the shooting, police evacuated the area surrounding Holmes’s apartment because they believe it was ‘booby-trapped.’  According to Aurora Police Chief Dan Oates, Holmes had explosive chemicals and ammunition inside his third-floor apartment.

Witnesses say the deadly chaos began around 12:30 a.m. when the gunman entered the theater through an emergency exit and threw a gas canister into the audience. He then opened fire.  Police say they recovered two pistols, and assault rifle, a shotgun, a ballistics helmet and a gas mask at the scene.  Holmes was taken into custody after police found him behind the theater.

VIDEO: 12 Dead, Over 50 Wounded in Colorado Cinema Shooting