Seven Dead after West Texas Shooting Spree

A gunman in West Texas who went on a shooting spree, killing five people while randomly firing from his vehicle and then from a hijacked mail truck, was shot and killed by police in a gun battle in a movie theater parking lot, authorities said Saturday.

At least 21 people were injured, including three law enforcement officers, Odessa Police Chief Michael Gerke said at a news conference. A hospital administrator said a child under the age of 2 was hurt and at least seven people were in critical condition.
Gerke...

A bulk of gun law changes took effect in Texas on Sunday, loosening restrictions just one day after a mass shooting near Odessa and Midland left at least 5 people dead.

The laws open more opportunities for Texans to have firearms and store ammunition in public places.

From churches to public schools to foster homes, the laws also loosen restrictions on where a firearm is permitted.

The laws were already set to take effect Sept. 1 but come just one day after a routine traffic stop on Interstate 20 triggered...