Heartbroken friends and family members have paid tribute to two men killed when a callous gunman opened fire during a boozy party at a shopping mall.
Five more were also injured after gunfire erupted at the private party in Amarillo, Texas, in the early hours of today.
The two killed have been identified as Semagea 'Smitty' Smith, 32, and DeQuincton Taylor, 28. Both of them were fathers.
In March this year Smitty had got a qualification from Amarillo College, which he hoped would let him turn his life around.
In his last post on Facebook he wrote: "First thing I gotta say is I thank GOD for blessing me on this opportunity for a big change in life and my family/friends!!!
"It was a dream to drive a big truck with the major support I had on this big accomplishment and I achieved it!!!"
According to tributes from friends, he was a dad.
Police say a fight broke out at a party and someone started shooting.
One of the victims died at the scene, seven were injured and rushed to hospital.
Another victim later died. The families of those killed have been notified.
The remaining five shot have varying levels of injury but according to police are expected to recover.
Police told ABC 7 News said there was evidence of a big party involving lots of alcohol. No arrests have been made at this time.
One tribute on social media read: "Smitty Smith, my heart dropped when I got the news. . We was hoping the best for you.
"You was one of the good ones.. You had such a good soul man..I’m praying for your mom your kids and your family. Rest In Peace Semagea."
Another read: "RIP Smitty Smith you were a good man.... Very positive and every time we had an interaction it was always cool.... Amarillo you guys on some BS.... RIP HOMEBOY...."
DeQuincton Taylor would post numerous pictures of him with his daughter.
A tribute posted on Facebook read: "Prayers to DeQuincton Taylor family. That man was good dad and friend."
Another, addressing him directly, read: "Your mother would be so proud to see what you have accomplished & your beautiful children will carry on your name forever!"
Investigations are ongoing and so far no arrests have been made.
It was a violent night for gun crime across the US with another mass shooting, this time in Cleveland, Ohio, leaving nine people injured.
Thankfully no deaths have been reported with this other shocking incident outside Rumor bar.
Jennifer Ciaccia, a spokesperson for the Cleveland Division of Police said: “Preliminary information indicates that a suspect opened fire toward a group of people and then fled the scene."
Police rushed to the scene on the corner of West 6th Street and Johnson Court after reports came in multiple people were shot.
Officers “arrived quickly” and provided medical aid on scene, according to the police spokesperson.
“Investigators are in the process of reviewing evidence and video, as well as interviewing victims at MetroHealth Medical Center,” Ms Ciaccia’s statement said.
A witness said: "Praying for all the people I just seen her shot outside of Rumors"
The third mass shooting was at a restaurant in the Beverly Grove area of Los Angeles.
Emergency services were called to Berri's Cafe just before 4am, the Los Angeles Police Department said.
One person died at the scene and the two other victims were taken to the hospital in unknown condition.
So far no further information has been released.
