At least 27 people are dead after a mass shooting at a rural Connecticut elementary school Friday morning.
According to media reports at least 18 of the deceased were children. The principle and school psychologist reportedly were also killed.
Connecticut State Police Lieutenant Paul Vance said the scene had been secured.
SOUNDBITE: Lieutenant Paul Vance, Connecticut State Police.
"There were several fatalities at the scene, both student and staff. There is no information relative to that that is being released at this time until we have made complete and proper notification. The shooter is deceased inside the building."
As police and emergency vehicles surrounded the area, parents raced to Sandy Hook Elementary School - which serves children in kindergarten through fourth grade - children aged roughly five through ten.
White House Press Secretary Jay Carney said President Barack Obama had been notified of the incident.
SOUNDBITE: White House Press Secretary Jay Carney
"The president recently completed a phone call with FBI Director Mueller as well a call with the Governor of Connecticut Dan Malloy to receive the latest information on the situation there and to express his condolences and concern for those who have lost loved ones as well as those who were injured."
If the death toll is confirmed - the massacre would become one of the worst mass shootings in U.S. history.
