Broward Sheriff: 17 dead after high school shooting

PARKLAND, Fla. — An acquaintance of the man suspected of killing 17 people at a high school in south Broward County this afternoon described the alleged shooter as a “psycho.”

That description was shared by a student at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School after Nikolas Cruz, 19, was arrested near the campus by local police.

Sheriff Scott Israel said Cruz was a former Douglas student who was expelled for disciplinary reasons and reportedly warned to stay away from the school in the past, because he was considered a threat.

Students shared videos of the chaos during the assault in the school. In one video, students can be seen hiding under desks, screaming out as numerous shots were being fired outside their classroom.

“We believe he had one AR-15 rifle. He had countless magazines,” said Sheriff Israel.

As students were being led out, a SWAT team focused on a three story building on the campus. The arrest was made later away from the school.

Some students told WSVN TV that they heard shots, but were unsure until the fire alarm sounded and they evacuated the school to the arms of waiting and worried parents.

ABC News has counted 29 mass shootings in the last year.

This is a developing story. Return here for updates.