On Friday, March 15, 49 people were killed during shootings at two different mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. The shootings happened at Al Noor Mosque and Linwood Mosque which are only three miles away from each other. So far, 49 people have been reported dead, but this number is expected to rise because of the dozens more wounded at the scenes. Authorities have also reported to have defused several explosive devices around Cathedral Square, which lies in the middle of the two mosques.

 Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has declared this an act of terrorism and advises citizens to stay inside where it is safe. One suspect has been brought into custody with a charge of murder. Three other suspects were also arrested. Multiple celebrities and authority figures have sent their prayers to Christchurch as this tragedy unfolds. Also, many videos of the catastrophe have been found online, and authorities are working to remove the graphic footage before more people see it. With this terrorist attack being one of several that occured this year, it is evident that we need a change in order to protect people.