US: One killed in shooting at apartment complex near Ohio mosque

Authorities in Columbus, Ohio, have clarified that a fatal shooting reported near a mosque was not connected to the place of worship or the people inside, following an initial alert that prompted a response from local and federal agencies.

One person was killed in the incident, which occurred in the parking lot of an apartment complex adjoining the mosque, northeast of downtown Columbus, The Associated Press reported.

Police officers and agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) arrived in the area after receiving reports of a shooting at the mosque. The federal agency also acknowledged its response in a post on X.

Sgt. James Fuqua said a gathering was taking place inside the mosque when the shooting occurred, but the events were unrelated. He stressed that the incident should not be mistaken for an attack on the religious institution.

The ATF had not immediately provided further details when contacted by AP. The initial reports prompted concern over a possible shooting at the mosque, but police said the violence took place in the neighbouring apartment complex.