13 dead in California bar shooting, including gunman and sheriff's deputy

At least 12 people have been killed, including a Sheriff’s department police officer, at a country and western music bar in Thousand Oaks, California, near Los Angeles.

According to worldwide reports, the shooting began at 23:20 local time on Wednesday about 40 miles (65km) north-west of LA.

More than 200 people were believed to be inside the Borderline Bar and Grill, where a university student night was underway at the time of the attack.

Officials confirmed that the shooter was found dead inside the bar. A motive for the attack has not yet been determined.

Donald Trump tweeted on Thursday morning to say that he was briefed on the shooting, describing it as "terrible", and praising the bravery of the police officers involved.

“Great bravery shown by police. California Highway Patrol was on scene within 3 minutes, with first officer to enter shot numerous times,” he wrote. “That Sheriff’s Sergeant died in the hospital. God bless all of the victims and families of the victims. Thank you to Law Enforcement.”

According to media reports, the suspect entered the bar dressed in black and opened fire. Reports also say that the suspect may have used smoke grenades and at least one weapon, described as a semi-automatic handgun by witnesses.

This is the latest in a long line of deadly shootings in the US. In the last two weeks alone, a man shot dead two people in a yoga studio in Florida, and another gunman opened fire on a synagogue in Pittsburgh, killing 11.

According to the website Gun Violence Archive, more than 12,000 people have been killed using firearms in the US so far this year, including about 3,000 people under 18.

This tragedy in California will embolden calls from those who want tighter gun control, as well as igniting fierce defence from pro-gun lobbyists.

This story is still developing.