At least one Chinese citizen confirmed dead in US California mass shooting

The Chinese Consulate General in Los Angeles confirmed Monday (Jan. 23) that at least one Chinese citizen died in the mass shooting Saturday night in the city of Monterey Park, 16 km east of Los Angeles downtown.

The fatal incident occurred at 10:22 p.m. Saturday local time in Star Ballroom Dance Studio, a popular ballroom dance facility that had been operated for about 30 years when it was hosting an event to celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year countdown.

According to the authorities, the mass shooting left 11 dead and 9 wounded as of Monday. All the victims are over their 50s.

"It is currently confirmed that a Chinese citizen was unfortunately killed in the incident," the consulate's spokesman said in a statement posted on its official website. "We are working with relevant domestic departments and the United States to assist in dealing with the aftermath."

The Chinese embassy and consulates in the United States flew Chinese flags at half-staff on Monday in honor of the victims of the Saturday tragedy.