James Holmes Charged With 24 Counts Of First Degree Murder In Theater Shooting

A total of 142 charges, including 24 counts of first degree murder, were filed against Colorado theater shooting suspect James Holmes Monday in a Aurora District Court. The 24-year-old was charged with two counts of first degree murder for each of the 12 people who died in the shooting. For each victim, Holmes will face one murder count for “deliberation” and one murder count for showing “extreme indifference.” He was also charged with 116 counts of attempted murder, one count of violent crime and one count of possession of explosive devices.

Holmes is accused of opening fire on moviegoers at a midnight showing of The Dark Knight Rises at Century Aurora 16 Theater on July 20. Holmes wore tactical gear and used an AR-15 rifle, a 12-gauge shotgun and a .40-caliber handgun in the attack. A second .40-caliber handgun was also recovered at the scene.  Police then discovered Holmes apartment was “booby trapped” with a sophisticated system of wires, explosives, acid, bullets and gasoline.

Of the 59 people wounded in the attack, 10 remain hospitalized. At least four of the victims are in critical condition.

Holmes, 24, is currently being held at Arapahoe County Jail. His next hearing is set for August 9.

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