UPDATE 2 - Multiple victims reported in US school shooting

ADDS DETAILS THROUGHOUT

By Michael Hernandez

WASHINGTON (AA) - At least 14 people are injured following a shooting Wednesday at Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, according to police.

Florida Senator Bill Nelson told NBC News that multiple people have been killed.

"This is catastrophic," Broward Sheriff Scott Israel told reporters.

His office said victims have and are being transported to local hospitals.

Deputies are on the scene and a suspected shooter has been taken into custody, according to authorities.

Israel identified the suspect as an 18-year-old male former student, adding he was arrested off-campus without incident.

People are being advised to avoid the area as the scene is still active. Footage appearing on television and social media depicts students being escorted out of the high school in small groups amid a heavy police presence.

President Donald Trump has phoned Florida Governor Rick Scott to offer federal assistance if it is needed, the White House said in a statement.

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen also phoned Scott as well as other state and local officials, the White House said

Florida Congresswoman Frederica Wilson called the shooting "heartbreaking" on Twitter, sending her thoughts and prayers to the victims.

"It is heartbreaking that these violent incidents continue to take place in schools, a place where our children should feel and be the most safe!" she added.

This story is developing.