House Majority Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.) is in critical condition after he and four others were injured during a shooting at a baseball field in Alexandria Wednesday morning. Lawmakers reported hearing between 50 and 100 shots fired. After a gunfight with police, the shooter was fatally injured.

The timeline

6:30 a.m.: The Republican baseball team began practicing for Thursday’s Congressional Baseball Game for Charity. They were hitting and fielding balls at Eugene Simpson Stadium Park in the 400 block of Monroe Street, near the YMCA.

7:09 a.m.: Alexandria Police received a report of a shooting at the ballfield. Some Capitol Police officers, assigned to protect Scalise, were on the scene at the time of the shooting.

7:12 a.m.: Alexandria Police exchanged gunfire with the suspect.

8:23 a.m.: Alexandria Police confirmed the suspect was in custody.

11:36 a.m.: President Trump confirmed the suspect had died.

RELATED: No security detail for most members of Congress

The victims

Rep. Steve Scalise was standing on second base fielding balls when he was shot in the hip.

He has undergone several surgeries and will require more, MedStar Washington hospital reported Thursday night. His health has improved, but he remains in critical condition. The hospital said Scalise will remain in their care 'for some time.'

<p>WASHINGTON -U.S. Rep. Steve Scalise (R-LA) (L) speaks to members of the media as Speaker of the House Rep. John Boehner (R-OH) (R) listens after a leadership election at a House Republican Conference meeting June 19, 2014 on Capitol Hill. </p>

Scalise was able to speak with his wife on the phone before surgery. Mrs. Scalise and their two young children are at the hospital after flying in from New Orleans.

President Trump and the first lady Melania Trump made a surprise visit to Rep. Scalise at the hospital. They brought two bouquets of white flowers.

RELATED: Victims recovering after shooting during baseball practice

Tyson Food Director of Government Relations Matt Mika suffered several gunshot wounds and remains in the intensive care unit in serious condition, which is an improvement from critical condition as he was intially listed. Mika underwent surgery and has the most severe injuries.

In a statement, Mika’s family said they expect him to remain in the hospital for several days. “We continue to be in disbelief that he would be part of this heinous attack,” the family wrote.

Mika is a former aide to Michigan Republican congressman Tim Walberg.

Mika's family described him as "a very thoughtful, fun-loving person who is competitive and loyal; all things which contributed to his continued commitment to the Congressional Baseball Game."

Special agents with Capitol Police, David Bailey and Crystal Griner, were also among those injured. Griner was shot in the ankle and is in good condition in the hospital. She is expected to make a full recovery. Bailey was treated for a minor injury and has been released from the hospital.

“I want to commend Special Agents Griner, Bailey, and Henry Cabrera for their heroic and appropriate response,” said U.S. Capitol Police Chief Matthew Verderosa in a statement. “Today we saw how our officers’ extensive training and quick response saved lives.”

RELATED: 'I was doing what I could to not get killed'

Congressional staffer Zach Barth also was injured in the attack. No further details have been released about his injuries.

Rep. Roger Williams (R-Tex.) wasn't shot, but hurt his ankle during the attack. He's in a boot and on crutches.

PHOTOS: Multiple people shot at Congressional baseball practice <p>James Hodgkinson, has long criminal history in St. Clair County, Illinois. <span style="background-color: rgb(246, 247, 249); color: rgb(29, 33, 41); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;">St. Clair County Sheriff’s Dept. </span></p> <p>James Hodgkinson, has long criminal history in St. Clair County, Illinois. </p> A screenshot showing the Facebook profile picture of James T. Hodgkinson. The Illinois man was identified as officials as the suspect in the shooting at a Congressional baseball game practice. (His photo is seen in front of a picture from the scene) ALEXANDRIA, VA - JUNE 14: Michael Brown, Alexandria Chief of Police, briefs members of the press near Eugene Simpson Field, the site where a gunman opened fire June 14, 2017 in Alexandria, Virginia. Multiple injuries were reported from the instance, the site where a congressional baseball team was holding an early morning practice, including House Republican Whip Steve Scalise (R-LA) who was reportedly shot in the hip. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images) ALEXANDRIA, VA - JUNE 14: Matthew Verderosa, Capitol Hill Chief of Police, briefs members of the press near Eugene Simpson Field, the site where a gunman opened fire June 14, 2017 in Alexandria, Virginia. Multiple injuries were reported from the instance, the site where a congressional baseball team was holding an early morning practice, including House Republican Whip Steve Scalise (R-LA) who was reportedly shot in the hip. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images) A view of shoes left at a baseball field after a shooting during a practice of the Republican congressional baseball at Eugene Simpson Statium Park June 14, 2017 in Alexandria, Virginia. At least five people people including a top Republican congressman were wounded in a Washington suburb early Wednesday morning when a shooting erupted as they practiced for an annual baseball game between lawmakers. Senior congressman Steve Scalise was shot in the hip, according to fellow Republican lawmaker Mo Brooks who told CNN at least two law enforcement officers and one congressional staffer were also shot in the incident in Alexandria, Virginia. / AFP PHOTO / Brendan Smialowski (Photo credit should read BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP/Getty Images) ALEXANDRIA, VA - JUNE 14: Men dressed in baseball gear gather at Eugene Simpson Field, the site where a gunman opened fire June 14, 2017 in Alexandria, Virginia. Multiple injuries were reported from the instance, the site where a congressional baseball team was holding an early morning practice, including House Republican Whip Steve Scalise (R-LA) who was reportedly shot in the hip. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images) WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 14: Congressional staffers stand outside the office of House Majority Whip Steve Scalise (R-LA), inside the U.S. Capitol Building, on June 14, 2017 in Washington, DC. Scalise was among five injured in gunfire as Congressional Republicans practiced for a charity baseball game in Alexandria, Virginia. (Photo by Mark Wilson/Getty Images) Rep. Mo Brooks (C)R-AL speaks to the media near the crime scene of an early morning shooting in Alexandria, Virginia, June 14, 2017. Several people including a top Republican congressman were wounded in a Washington suburb early Wednesday morning when a gunman opened fire as they practiced for an annual baseball game between lawmakers.Congressman Steve Scalise, the majority whip who rallies Republican votes in the House of Representatives and one of around two dozen lawmakers gathered at the baseball field in Alexandria, Virginia, was badly injured by a gunshot to the hip, but in stable condition according to his office. / AFP PHOTO / Brendan Smialowski (Photo credit should read BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP/Getty Images) Law enforcement officers place crime scene tape near a playground after a shooting during a practice of the Republican congressional baseball at Eugene Simpson Statium Park June 14, 2017 in Alexandria, Virginia. At least five people people including a top Republican congressman were wounded in a Washington suburb early Wednesday morning when a shooting erupted as they practiced for an annual baseball game between lawmakers. Senior congressman Steve Scalise was shot in the hip, according to fellow Republican lawmaker Mo Brooks who told CNN at least two law enforcement officers and one congressional staffer were also shot in the incident in Alexandria, Virginia. / AFP PHOTO / Brendan Smialowski (Photo credit should read BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP/Getty Images) ALEXANDRIA, VA - JUNE 14: Neighborhood residents gather with lae enforcement personnel near Eugene Simpson Field, the site where a gunman opened fire June 14, 2017 in Alexandria, Virginia. Multiple injuries were reported from the instance, the site where a congressional baseball team was holding an early morning practice, including House Republican Whip Steve Scalise (R-LA) who was reportedly shot in the hip. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images) ALEXANDRIA, VA - JUNE 14: Investigators and emergency personnel gather at Eugene Simpson Field, the site where a gunman opened fire June 14, 2017 in Alexandria, Virginia. Multiple injuries were reported from the instance, the site where a congressional baseball team was holding an early morning practice, including House Republican Whip Steve Scalise (R-LA) who was reportedly shot in the hip. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images) <p>Twitter photo: Larry Miller</p> <p>ALEXANDRIA, VA - JUNE 14: A member of the Alexandria Police runs up the street near the scene of an opened fire June 14, 2017 in Alexandria, Virginia. Multiple injuries were reported from the instance. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images)</p> ALEXANDRIA, VA - JUNE 14: A member of the Alexandria Police stands guard near the scene of an opened fire June 14, 2017 in Alexandria, Virginia. Multiple injuries were reported from the instance. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images) ALEXANDRIA, VA - JUNE 14: Investigators gather near the scene of an opened fire June 14, 2017 in Alexandria, Virginia. Multiple injuries were reported from the instance. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images) ALEXANDRIA, VA - JUNE 14: Investigators gather near the scene of an opened fire June 14, 2017 in Alexandria, Virginia. Multiple injuries were reported from the instance. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images) ALEXANDRIA, VA - JUNE 14: Investigators gather near the scene of an opened fire June 14, 2017 in Alexandria, Virginia. Multiple injuries were reported from the instance. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images)

The gunman

The suspect, identified as James T. Hodgkinson, 66, from Illinois, used an M4 assault carbine during the attack, CBS News confirmed. The FBI also recovered a 9 mm handgun from the scene.

The bureau said Hodgkinson bought both of the weapons from federal firearm licensees. At this time, there is no evidence he bought them unlawfully, the FBI reported Thursday.

The FBI also is examining a cell phone, computer, and camera taken from his van, which was parked in the YMCA parking lot across from the shooting scene.

Hodgkinson was a member at that YMCA, though he canceled his membership the day before the shooting, telling staff that he was moving.

In cell phone video from the scene, gunshots could be heard for several minutes.

Court records from St. Clair County, Illinois, reveal a troubled man with a long history of violence. More than 30 criminal and civil cases dating back to 1989 involve the Alexandria shooter.

In recent months, Hodgkinson had reportedly been living in Alexandria, Virginia. Former Mayor Bill Euille told WUSA9 he’d recently met the suspect at the local YMCA. He described Hodgkinson as “calm” and “quiet” and said he wasn’t on his radar for something like this.

“He never expressed himself, at least to me politically,” the former mayor said. “No signs of depression.”

WATCH: Full interview with former Alexandria mayor Bill Euille

Hodgkinson’s Facebook page paints a portrait of a man with strong political views. He was a member of fiercely anti-Republican Facebook groups. And he served as a presidential campaign volunteer for Bernie Sanders, who took to the Senate floor to condemn his act of violence.

The suspect was also a prolific letter writer to his hometown newspaper, the Belleville News-Democrat. He called President Donald Trump a traitor, and blasted the Republican party as being racist and sexist.

RELATED: Alexandria shooter had extensive criminal record

The FBI has now taken over the investigation. Agents are investigating Hodgkinson's potential motivations, social media use, people who knew him, and where he's been recently.

Authorities do not yet know his motive.

The Congressional baseball game

Lawmakers were practicing for Thursday’s Congressional Baseball Game for Charity. It’s an annual even that started back in 1909 and offers a rare glimpse of unity between lawmakers.

The game went on as planned at Nats Park with a record crowd of 25,000 people. The game also raised more than $1 million for D.C. charities, double what it did last year.

Before the game started, both teams kneeled down to pray on the field. Then, wounded Capitol Police Special Agent David Bailey threw out the first pitch. It was an emotional scene as he made it to the mound on crutches and then balanced on one leg to throw the ball.

Democrats ended up winning the game, but they handed over the trophy as quickly as they received it and asked for it to be placed in Rep. Scalise’s office.

"We're brothers and sisters, and the trophy doesn't mean anything, our friendship does," said Rep. Joe Donnelly, of Indiana.

You can find out more information on the Congressional Baseball Game website.</s>Rep. Steve Scalise, R-La., the House majority whip, is in critical condition, hospital officials said Wednesday evening, after he and three others were shot by a gunman this morning while members of Congress were practicing for a charity baseball game in Alexandria, Virginia.

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Officers returned fire at the suspect, who has since died, authorities said.

In addition to Scalise, a lobbyist, a congressional staffer and a Capitol Police officer were also shot.

And an additional two individuals — a congressman and a Capitol Police officer — sustained secondary injuries.

Shawn Thew/EPA

Scalise's office said he was shot in the hip and underwent surgery.

"Prior to entering surgery, the whip was in good spirits and spoke to his wife by phone," his office said in a statement. "He is grateful for the brave actions of U.S. Capitol Police, first responders and colleagues. We ask that you keep the whip and others harmed in this incident in your thoughts and prayers."

MedStar Washington Hospital Center, the facility treating Scalise, issued a statement updating the public on his condition Wednesday evening.

"Congressman Steve Scalise sustained a single rifle shot to the left hip. The bullet traveled across his pelvis, fracturing bones, injuring internal organs, and causing severe bleeding," the statement reads. "He underwent immediate surgery, and an additional procedure to stop bleeding. He has received multiple units of blood transfusion. His condition is critical, and he will require additional operations."

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump arrived at the hospital with flowers Wednesday evening where Trump sat by Scalise's bedside and met with his wife Jennifer, as well as Capitol Police officer Crystal Griner, who was also wounded in the attack, and her wife.

Trump tweeted, "Just left hospital. Rep. Steve Scalise, one of the truly great people, is in very tough shape - but he is a real fighter. Pray for Steve!"

Just left hospital. Rep. Steve Scalise, one of the truly great people, is in very tough shape - but he is a real fighter. Pray for Steve! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 15, 2017

Mark Wilson/Getty Images

Law enforcement identified the suspected shooter as James Hodgkinson, 66, of Belleville, Illinois. His wife told ABC News, however, that he had been living in Alexandria for the past two months, but he had not been working and had been expected to return to Illinois in the coming days. FBI Special Agent in Charge Tim Slater said at a press conference this afternoon that Hodgkinson had been living out of a white cargo van in Alexandria.

St. Clair County Sheriff

The shooting took place around 7 a.m. at Eugene Simpson Stadium Park, where a number of lawmakers were practicing for the annual charity congressional baseball game set for Thursday. Only Republicans were at this practice. The park is about 7 miles from the White House.

Matt Mika, who works as a lobbyist for Tyson Foods, suffered multiple gunshot wounds and is in the ICU in critical condition, his family said in a statement.

Tyson Foods

A Tyson Foods spokesperson said Mika, director of government relations for its Washington, D.C., office, has worked for Tyson Foods for more than six years.

Mika, a former college baseball and football player, was helping with practice, Tyson Foods said.

"While the attack today was a terrible surprise, Matt’s presence on the ball field, helping longtime colleagues and friends was not," Mika's family said. "He is a very thoughtful, fun-loving person who is competitive and loyal; all things which contributed to his continued commitment to the Congressional Baseball Game.”

Zachary Barth, a legislative correspondent working for Texas Rep. Roger Williams, was also among those shot, according to a statement from the congressman. Williams said Barth was treated and released from the hospital and is "on the road to recovery."

Barth is not on the Republican baseball team but was helping the lawmakers train for the game, a family spokesperson told ABC News.

Zack Barth/Facebook

Barth's family spokesperson said a bullet went through his calf, and after he was shot, he allegedly saw the gunman aiming at him. Barth then dove for the dugout, where he grabbed a belt to wrap around his leg to stem the blood flow, the family spokesperson said. Sen. Jeff Flake, R-Ariz., also helped Barth, Williams said.

Williams, who is the team's coach and injured his leg and ankle diving to safety in the dugout, told reporters this afternoon that even though Barth was bleeding, he continued texting from the dugout, letting people know they needed help.

In addition to Griner, David Bailey was identified as the second injured Capitol Police officer, according to House Speaker Paul Ryan.

U.S. Capitol Police Chief Matthew Verderosa said Griner was shot in the ankle and is in good condition, while Bailey was treated for a minor injury and released.

Williams was emotional at a news conference this afternoon, saying Griner and Bailey prevented what "could have easily been 25 deaths or more."

Verderosa said, “I want to commend Special Agents Crystal Griner, David Bailey, and Henry Cabrera for their heroic and appropriate response. ... The United States Capitol Police is dedicated to its mission to protect the U.S. Capitol, Members of Congress, staff and the visiting public, and today we saw how our officers’ extensive training and quick response saved lives."

Rep. Joe Barton, R-Texas, who was at the scene, said the gunman was shooting at people on the field and Capitol Police officers ran toward the shooter and returned fire. He said the incident lasted about 10 minutes.

Rep. Mo Brooks, R-Ala., told CNN of the shooting this morning, "I was on deck about to hit ... and I hear 'bam.' And I look around and behind third base ... I see a rifle.

“At the same time I hear Steve Scalise over near second base scream," Brooks added. "He was shot."

Michael Reynolds/EPA

Brooks said he took off his belt and he and another congressman applied a tourniquet to try to slow the bleeding.

Brooks said a security detail returned fire at the active shooter. Brooks estimated that 50 to 100 shots were fired.

At least 21 members of Congress were at this morning's baseball practice, including Scalise and two U.S. senators. All members of the GOP baseball team have been accounted for. Staffers and family members were also there; Rep. Barton said his 10-year-old son was there when the shooting broke out. At a news conference this afternoon Barton was emotional, saying his son had "25 dads today" as everyone looked out for him when the gunfire began.

Alex Wong/Getty Images

Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., told ABC News he was in the batting cage when he heard an isolated gunshot.

Then "a burst of gunfire" erupted, Paul said. "At that point, people were dropping. Scalise was shot around second base and he crawled a little bit into the outfield."

Paul said Scalise's security detail exchanged fire with the active shooter.

"These guys were real heroes and I think without them everybody probably would have been killed," Paul said. "Steve Scalise is in leadership and that's the only reason there was security detail there at all. I'm sad that he was shot but he actually saved everybody's life by being there."'

Cliff Owen/AP Photo

Rep. Brad Wenstrup, R-Ohio, an Iraq War veteran, told Fox News that once the shooting stopped he administered aid to Scalise, putting a compression on his wound.

"I felt I was back in Iraq but without my weapon," he told Fox News.

Wenstrup said Scalise "was as brave as he could possibly be. He said, 'I'm thirsty.' Obviously, you don't know how much fluid he may be losing internally."

Rep. Rodney Davis, R-Ill., told ABC News he saw "the bravery of the two Capitol Police officers that engaged the shooter that saved the lives of every single person there ... Without them there, this would have been a massacre."

Shawn Thew/EPA

Davis said his message to the shooter is, "We are the greatest country in the history of the world. We have freedoms that many on this globe wish they would have, and you took those freedoms and tried to take lives. And you didn't succeed, and there is a warm place in hell for you too."

Alex Wong/Getty Images

At a news conference this morning, Alexandria Police Chief Mike Brown assured residents that the community is safe.

The FBI is leading the investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is conducting traces on one rifle and one handgun recovered from the scene.

Authorities said in a statement this afternoon that "The FBI is actively investigating Hodgkinson to include his associates, whereabouts, social media impressions and potential motivations," and anyone with information about him is asked to call the FBI.

Cliff Owen/AP

In an on-camera statement earlier Wednesday, Trump spoke directly to Scalise, saying, "Steve, I want you to know that you have the prayers, not only of the entire city behind you but of an entire nation and, frankly, the entire world."

Trump added, "We may have our differences, but we do well in times like these to remember that everyone who serves in our nation's capital is here because, above all, they love our country."

Ryan said on the House floor, "We are united in our shock. We are united in our anguish and attack on one of us is an attack on all of us."

Rep. Ruben Kihuen, D-Nev., tweeted a photo of Democrats praying for their Republican baseball colleagues.

The Democratic and Republican baseball teams are expected to have dinner together tonight at the Democratic Club.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky said this morning, "We're deeply saddened. We’re all concerned for those injured. We'll keep them in our prayers and send them our wish for a quick and full recovery."

He added, "The Congressional Baseball Game is a bipartisan charity event. I know the Senate will embrace that today as we come together to express our concern and our gratitude."

The game will go on Thursday evening as planned at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C.

Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Calif., tweeted, "We will play for charity, but also for the victims & the heroic officers who took down the shooter."

The #congressionalbaseballgame is on. We will play for charity, but also for the victims & the heroic officers who took down the shooter. — Rep. Eric Swalwell (@RepSwalwell) June 14, 2017

Trump will not attend Thursday's game because of concerns over security and last minute security requirements, a White House official told ABC News.

Former Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, who was shot in 2011, said in a statement today, "It doesn't matter if you're a Democrat or a Republican nor if you're a senator or a representative nor a staffer or a sworn officer. If you serve the institution of Congress, you're connected to your colleagues, current and former, by a shared sense of service to ideals far greater than yourself. This shooting is an attack on all who serve and on all who participate in our democracy."

She added, "I am heartbroken for the pain of Congressman Scalise, the other victims and their family, friends and colleagues who survived. I am thankful for the great courage of the Capitol Police, who were my protectors after I was shot and became my friends. I also know the courage it takes to recover from a shooting like this, and I know Steve and everyone there this morning have such courage in great supply. May all Americans come together today with prayers for the survivors, love for their friends and family and the courage to go about every day making this country its best. Our nation is resilient, and we always come back stronger.”</s>A gunman opened fire on a Republican congressional team baseball practice Wednesday and Rep. Steve Scalise, R-La., was among the wounded, authorities said. (6/14/17 10 AM)</s>A gunman opened fire on a Congressional baseball practice early Wednesday morning in Alexandria, Virginia. Five people, including the shooter, were shot and wounded during the attack. House Majority Whip Steve Scalise was among those shot. NBC News sources identified the shooter as James T. Hodgkinson. He was shot by Capitol police and later died of his injuries, President Trump told the nation from the White House.</s>ALEXANDRIA, Va. >> A rifle-wielding attacker opened fire on Republican lawmakers at a congressional baseball practice Wednesday, wounding House GOP Whip Steve Scalise of Louisiana and several others as congressmen and aides dove for cover. The assailant, prepared with “a lot of ammo,” fought a gun battle with police before he, too, was shot and later died.

Colleagues said Scalise dragged himself away from the infield leaving a trail of blood as they rushed to his assistance. He was taken to a hospital where he underwent surgery and was listed in critical condition. His office said that before surgery for a wound in his hip he was in good spirits and spoke with his wife by telephone.

The shooter was identified as James T. Hodgkinson, a 66-year-old home inspector from Illinois who had several minor run-ins with the law in recent years and belonged to a Facebook group called “Terminate the Republican Party.”

Shortly after the shooting, Bernie Sanders, the former candidate for the Democratic presidential nomination, said on the Senate floor that the shooter apparently was a volunteer for his campaign last year. Sanders said he denounced the violence “in the strongest possible terms.”

Capitol Police officers who were in Scalise’s security detail wounded the shooter, who was taken into custody. He later died of his injuries, President Donald Trump told the nation from the White House.

“Everyone on that field is a public servant,” Trump said. “Their sacrifice makes democracy possible.”

Scalise, 51, the No. 3 House Republican leader, was first elected to the House in 2008. The popular and gregarious lawmaker is known for his love of baseball and handed out commemorative bats when he secured the No. 3 job of House whip several years ago.

Texas Rep. Roger Williams, who coaches the GOP team, said that one of his aides, Zack Barth, was shot, but “is doing well and is expected to make a full recovery.” Two Capitol Police officers were also injured but were expected to recover, along with a former congressional aide who was hospitalized.

Rep. Jeff Duncan of South Carolina said he had just left the practice and encountered the apparent gunman in the parking lot before the shooting. The man calmly asked which party’s lawmakers were practicing and Duncan told him they were the Republicans. The man thanked him.

The gunman had a rifle and “a lot of ammo,” said Sen. Jeff Flake of Arizona, who was at the practice.

The shocking event left the Capitol horrified and stunned. The House canceled proceedings for the day. Speaker Paul Ryan of Wisconsin and Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi of California both spoke on the floor issuing calls for unity. “An attack on one of us is an attack on all of us,” Ryan said.

The shooting occurred at a popular park and baseball complex in Alexandria, Virginia, where Republican lawmakers and others were gathered for a morning practice about 7 a.m. They were in good spirits despite the heat and humidity as they prepared for the congressional baseball match that pits Republicans against Democrats. The popular annual face-off, which raises money for charity, is scheduled for Thursday evening at Nationals Park across the Potomac River in Washington, and will go forward as planned.

The team was taking batting practice when gunshots rang out and chaos erupted.

Scalise was fielding balls on second base when he was shot, according to lawmakers present, then dragged himself into the outfield to get away from the gunman.

Rep. Mo Brooks, an Alabama Republican, said his colleague “crawled into the outfield, leaving a trail of blood.”

“We started giving him the liquids, I put pressure on his wound in his hip,” Brooks said.

Texas Rep. Joe Barton, still in his baseball uniform, told reporters a shooter came out to the practice and opened fire, shooting at Rep. Trent Kelly, R-Miss., who plays third base.

“He shot at Steve Scalise, our second baseman. He hit Steve Scalise,” Barton said, “Scalise’s security detail and the Capitol Hill police immediately returned fire, and Alexandria Police also immediately came and began to return fire. They shot the shooter. The security detail saved a lot of lives because they attacked the shooter.”

Barton said the shooting lasted 5-10 minutes, and there were dozens or more of shots fired.

Lawmakers took cover in the dugout. Barton said his son, Jack, got under an SUV.

Texas Rep. Mike Conaway, who was at the game, described what sounded like an explosion, then lawmakers scattering off the field as police roamed in search of the gunman and engaged him.

“The guy’s down to a handgun, he dropped his rifle, they shoot him, I go over there, they put him in handcuffs,” Conaway said, adding that if the shooter had “gotten inside the fence, where a bunch of guys were holed up in the dugout, it would have been like shooting fish in a barrel.”

FBI special agent in charge Tim Slater said it was “too early to say” whether it was an act of terrorism, or whether Scalise was targeted.

Speaker Ryan identified the wounded Capitol Police officers as David Bailey and Crystal Griner. Also wounded was former congressional aide Matt Mika, who now works for Tyson Foods in its Washington office. Mika’s family said the lobbyist was shot multiple times and was in critical condition and in surgery.

After the gunfire stopped, Sen. Flake, of Arizona, said he ran onto the field and also tried to come to Scalise’s aide. After medical personnel arrived, he said he retrieved Scalise’s phone and made the first call to Scalise’s wife to notify her of the shooting. He said he did so to ensure that Mrs. Scalise would not find out about the shooting through the media.

Falisa Peoples was just leaving the YMCA next to the ball field when she saw the shooter open fire.

“He was just very calm. He was just walking and shooting,” she said of the man, whom she described as white and wearing a T-shirt and shorts. She said he was using a long gun and exchanging fire with law enforcement officers, one of whom yelled for her to get down.

Lawmakers were stunned in the aftermath of the event, which raised questions about the security of members of Congress. While the top lawmakers, including Scalise, have security details, others do not and regularly appear in public without protection. The last time a lawmaker was shot was when Democratic Rep. Gabby Giffords of Arizona was hit in the head and grievously injured while meeting with constituents at a supermarket parking lot in 2011.

Following the Giffords shooting, lawmakers have held fewer open town halls and have been advised to increase security at such events.

Associated Press reporters Ed White in Detroit and Eric Tucker, Mary Clare Jalonick, Ken Thomas, Vivian Salama, Stephen Ohlemacher, Alan Fram, Andrew Taylor, Sarah Brumfield and Michael Biesecker in Washington contributed to this report.</s>ALEXANDRIA, VA. - A gunman opened fire on a Republican congressional baseball team practicing on a suburban Virginia field Wednesday, wounding Louisiana congressman Steve Scalise and at least three others as horrified legislators and staffers scrambled for cover amid a hail of bullets.

Capitol Police were providing security for the practice and engaged the shooter, identified by a law enforcement official who spoke on condition of anonymity as James Hodgkinson, 66, from Belleville, Ill. President Trump later said the suspect was killed in the ensuing shootout.

Two wounded officers, Krystal Griner and David Bailey, were being hailed as heroes.

"Many lives would have been lost if not for the heroic actions of the two Capitol Police officers who took down the gunman despite sustaining gunshot wounds during a very, very brutal assault," Trump said. "Melania and I are grateful for their heroism and praying for the swift recovery of all victims. "

Scalise is in critical condition after undergoing surgery, according to MedStar Washington hospital.

Matt Mika, a former congressional aide, was shot multiple times during the practice and is also in critical condition, his family confirmed. He is undergoing surgery at a local hospital.

Rep. Chuck Fleischmann, R-Tenn., said the baseball practice session was almost over when the shooting began on the field shortly after 7 a.m.

“I heard a bang, and I thought it sounded like a gun. I never saw a shooter," Fleischmann said minutes after the gunman was taken into custody. "I heard him. I was close to the damn thing. Some of our people have been hit. This is horrible. I got bloody running and jumping into the dugout.”

Fleischmann estimated there were 50 to 60 people at the practice, including House members, senators and their staff. “Many have been shot, but a lot like me got bloody running for cover,” he said.

“It is just a madhouse here,” Fleischmann said. “It’s horrible. I’ve never experienced anything like that.”

South Carolina Rep. Jeff Duncan said he was leaving practice early when the man he believes was the gunman asked him if the players were Democrats or Republicans.

"I told him they were Republicans, he said 'OK, thanks,' and turned around," Duncan told reporters. "I got in the car and left."

Minutes later he heard about the rampage, which drew outrage from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle. Sen. Bernie Sanders issued a statement saying the suspect apparently he had been a volunteer on his presidential campaign. Sanders said he was "sickened by this despicable act."

Sen. Bernie Sanders issued a statement saying the suspect apparently he had been a volunteer on his presidential campaign. Sanders said he was "sickened by this despicable act."

"Let me be as clear as I can be. Violence of any kind is unacceptable in our society and I condemn this action in the strongest possible terms," Sanders said. "Real change can only come about through nonviolent action, and anything else runs against our most deeply held American values."

Pennsylvania Rep. Patrick Meehan said he has been throwing friendly shade on Ohio Democrat Tim Ryan since striking him out on a curveball last year.

"He just came up and gave me a hug," Meehan said.

Scalise, the third-ranking GOP "whip" in the House, was in stable condition after being shot in the hip and undergoing surgery at MedStar Washington Hospital Center, his office said in a statement.

"Prior to entering surgery, the Whip was in good spirits and spoke to his wife by phone," the statement said. "He is grateful for the brave actions of U.S. Capitol Police, first responders, and colleagues."

President Trump tweeted: "Rep. Steve Scalise of Louisiana, a true friend and patriot, was badly injured but will fully recover. Our thoughts and prayers are with him."

Rep. Roger Williams, R-Texas, said staffer Zach Barth was among the wounded and was in stable condition. U.S. Capitol Police Chief Matthew Verderosa said some of his officers were wounded but were in good condition.

Tim Slater, an FBI special agent in charge of the investigation, said it was too early to say if the shooter was targeting Republicans.

Capitol Police officers were providing security at the practice and quickly returned fire when the shooting began, Verderosa said. Alexandria Chief Michael Brown said his officers arrived three minutes after the first emergency call came in at 7:09 a.m. ET, and also joined the gunfight.

Sen. Jeff Flake, R-Ariz., who was at the scene, said several people were shot but Scalise was the only House member wounded.

"We heard a very loud shot during batting practice," Flake said. Then many more shots, and Capitol Police returned fire.

Sen. Rand Paul said he was "shaken but unharmed" after the rampage.

"Many people likely would have died this morning if not for the bravery of the Capitol Police," Paul said. "My thanks to them are inadequate but heartfelt. They never hesitated to put their lives on the line to save everyone."

Rep. Mo Brooks, R-Ala., told CNN people scattered when the shooting began. Scalise was standing in the in the infield and fell where he stood.

"He was not able to move under his own power. He was dragging his body from second base," Brooks said. "There was not a whole lot we could do. He was shot in the hip. I think it was not a life-threatening wound."

"It's not easy when you see people around you being shot and you don't have a weapon yourself," Brooks said. "You feel helpless."

The team of Republican congressman and staff members were practicing for a charity baseball game scheduled for later this week against a Democratic team. Rep. Jared Huffman, D-Calif., said his team was practicing when they heard about the attack on the Republicans.

"We're safe & with police, everyone praying for GOP colleagues, staff & Cap police," Huffman tweeted.

The shooting took place at Eugene Simpson Stadium Park, in the Del Ray section of Alexandria about seven miles from the Capitol. It's a quiet community made up of restaurants, small businesses and lots of families. Residents describe it as a safe neighborhood where people walk around outside until late at night. The field serves as a community hub, with games and activities at all hours.</s>Witnesses at a baseball field in Alexandria, Virginia say a gunman opened fire on members of Congress and their staffers, hitting several people including at least one congressman.

The shooting happened as Republican members of Congress were getting ready for the annual Congressional Baseball Game, which was scheduled for Thursday in Washington.

House Majority Whip Steve Scalise (R-LA) was among those shot on Wednesday morning. He was reportedly shot in the hip and is expected to recover.

"Scalise hit. Other staffers hit," Fox News reporter Chad Pergram tweeted on Wednesday just before 8 a.m. Eastern.

At least five people were taken to hospitals from the incident, according to Alexandria Police Chief Michael Brown.

The shooter is in police custody, according to CNN. He was taken to a hospital after the shooting.

After the incident was reported, Rep. Mo Brooks (R-AL), who was there when the shooting happened, told CNN "there must have been 50 to 100 shots fired."

Brooks also said the shooter shot two officers working protective detail for the Congress members at the event.

He told CNN the shooter looked like a "white male ... middle aged ... a little on the chubby side."

Sen. Jeff Flake (R-AZ) told the Associated Press that the gunman had "a rifle of some sort ... a lot of ammo."

Alabama talk radio host Matt Murphy tweeted that he spoke with Brooks as well, saying the congressman said "five or more" people were hit.

Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) told MSNBC he saw shots hitting the ground near where people had dropped for cover on the baseball diamond. Paul told the network that Capitol Police officers saved many lives.

At about 8:30 a.m., President Donald Trump released a statement on the shooting, saying he and Vice President Mike Pence "are deeply saddened by this tragedy."

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the members of Congress, their staffs, Capitol Police, first responders, and all others affected," Trump said.

Rep. Glenn Grothman (R-WI) told Wisconsin's WTMJ that he believed the shooting "could have been much worse" if Scalise had not been there, due to the security detail that protects him. Grothman said security would not typically follow a member of Congress to an event like this but because of Scalise's position as House majority whip, he had a detail with him.

The incident happened at a baseball field in Alexandria, Virginia.

The Congressional Baseball Game has been a tradition since 1909, being played between members of the U.S. House and Senate. Proceeds from the game benefit several charities.

Democrats were scheduled to practice later on Wednesday but that was canceled after the shooting.

Clint Davis covers entertainment and trending news topics for the Scripps National Desk. Follow him on Twitter @MrClintDavis.</s>A gunman opened fire on Republican members of Congress during a baseball practice near Washington early on Wednesday, wounding several people including House of Representatives Majority Whip Steve Scalise before being taken into custody, police and media reports said.

The shooter appeared to be a white male, "a little bit on the chubby side," Representative Mo Brooks told CNN, adding that he only saw the man for second.

Brooks said he heard 10 to 20 rounds from the gunman's rifle before the security detail returned fire. He said there were 20 to 25 members of team at the practice in Alexandria, Virginia, when the gunfire erupted.</s>Rep. Steve Scalise and two Captiol police officers were shot Wednesday at a baseball practice for a charity baseball game in Alexandria, Virginia.</s>Police tape cordons off the scene of an early morning shooting in Alexandria, Virginia; BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP/Getty Images(ALEXANDRIA, Va.) — Rep. Steve Scalise, R-La., the House majority whip, is in critical condition, hospital officials said Wednesday afternoon, after he and four others were shot by a gunman who opened fire on members of Congress practicing for a charity baseball game in Alexandria, Virginia, Wednesday morning.

Scalise, a lobbyist, a congressional staffer and two Capitol Police officers were injured. The suspect died from his injuries sustained in the shooting, President Donald Trump said in his remarks Wednesday morning.

Scalise’s office said he was shot in the hip and underwent surgery.

“Prior to entering surgery, the Whip was in good spirits and spoke to his wife by phone,” his office said in a statement. “He is grateful for the brave actions of U.S. Capitol Police, first responders, and colleagues. We ask that you keep the Whip and others harmed in this incident in your thoughts and prayers.”

Multiple law enforcement sources identified the suspected shooter as 66-year-old James Hodgkinson of Belleville, Illinois. His wife told ABC News he has been living in Alexandria, Virginia, for the past two months, but had not been working and was expected to return to Illinois in the coming days.

The shooting took place around 7 a.m. at Eugene Simpson Stadium Park in Alexandria, about seven miles away from the White House in Washington, D.C., where a number of lawmakers were practicing for the annual charity congressional baseball game set for Thursday. Only Republicans were at this practice; Democrats practiced earlier in the morning.

Zack Barth, a legislative correspondent working for Texas Rep. Roger Williams, was among those shot, according to a statement from Williams. Barth is receiving medical attention and is expected to make a full recovery, Williams said.

Williams’ office said the Republican baseball team holds practice every morning at 6:30 a.m. ET at Eugene Simpson Stadium Park and that Williams is the team’s coach.

Matt Mika, who works as a lobbyist for Tyson Foods, was also injured. A Tyson Foods spokesperson said in a statement that Mika, director of government relations for its Washington, D.C., office, was hospitalized, adding, “We’re awaiting word on his condition. Matt has worked for Tyson Foods for more than six years and we’re deeply concerned about him and his family.”

Mika previously worked for Rep. Tim Walberg, R-Mich., and remains “a close friend” of his, according to a statement from Walberg.

“As a former baseball player, he was volunteering at this morning’s practice to help the congressional team get ready for the game,” Walberg said in a statement. “This is deeply personal and Sue and I are praying for Matt as he receives medical attention.”

The two Capitol Police officers who were injured have been identified as David Bailey and Krystal Griner, according to House Speaker Paul Ryan.

“I spoke with special agent Bailey and special agent Greiner this morning. One was being treated and one was about to go into surgery,” Ryan said. “It is clear to me based on various eyewitness accounts that without these two heroes, Agent Bailey and Agent Griner, many lives would have been lost.”

Rep. Mo Brooks, R-Ala., told CNN, “I was on deck about to hit batting practice on the third base side and I hear, ‘Bam.’ And I look around and behind third base … I see a rifle. and I see a little bit of a body.”

“At the same time I hear Steve Scalise over near second base scream,” Brooks added. “He was shot.”

Brooks said he took off his belt and he and another congressman applied a tourniquet to try to slow the bleeding.

Brooks said a security detail returned fire at the active shooter. Brooks estimated that 50 to 100 shots were fired.

At least 21 members of Congress were at Wednesday morning’s baseball practice, including Scalise and two U.S. senators. Staffers and family members were also there; Rep. Joe Barton, R-Texas, said his two sons were in attendance, including his 11-year-old son. All members of the GOP baseball team have been accounted for.

Barton said in a statement, “The suspect was shooting at members and staff on the field. Officers of the Capitol Police returned fire and ran toward the shooter, risking their lives while saving others. The incident lasted for approximately 10 minutes.”

Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., told ABC News he was in the batting cage when he heard an isolated gunshot.

Then “a burst of gunfire” erupted, Paul said. “At that point, people were dropping. Scalise was shot around second base and he crawled a little bit into the outfield,” he explained.

Paul said Scalise’s security detail exchanged fire with the active shooter.

“These guys were real heroes and I think without them everybody probably would have been killed,” Paul said. “Steve Scalise is in leadership and that’s the only reason there was security detail there at all. I’m sad that he was shot but he actually saved everybody’s life by being there.”

Rep. Brad Wenstrup, R-Ohio, an Iraq War veteran, told Fox News that once the shooting stopped he administered aid to Scalise, putting a compression on his wound.

“I felt I was back in Iraq but without my weapon,” he told Fox News.

Wenstrup said Scalise “was as brave as he could possibly be. He said, ‘I’m thirsty.’ Obviously, you don’t know how much fluid he may be losing internally.”

Rep. Rodney Davis, R-Ill., told ABC News he saw “the bravery of the two capitol police officers that engaged the shooter that saved the lives of every single person there. … Without them there, this would have been a massacre.”

Davis said his message to the shooter is, “We are the greatest country in the history of the world. We have freedoms that many on this globe wish they would have, and you took those freedoms and tried to take lives. And you didn’t succeed, and there is a warm place in hell for you, too.”

Some other lawmakers in attendance were: Sen. Jeff Flake, R-Ariz.; Rep. Ron DeSantis, R-Fla.; and Rep. Chuck Fleischmann, R-Tenn.

At a news conference Wednesday morning, Alexandria Police Chief Mike Brown assured residents that the community is safe.

The FBI is leading the investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is conducting traces on one rifle and one handgun taken from the scene.

In an on-camera statement, Trump spoke directly to Scalise, saying, “Steve, I want you to know that you have the prayers, not only of the entire city behind you, but of an entire nation and frankly, the entire world.”

Trump added, “We may have our differences, but we do well in times like these to remember that everyone who serves in our nation’s capital is here because above all, they love our country.”

Both Trump and Vice President Mike Pence canceled their scheduled speeches for Wednesday.

Scalise’s office said no votes are expected in the House Wednesday.

Ryan said on the House floor Wednesday afternoon, “We are united in our shock. We are united in our anguish and attack on one of us is an attack on all of us.”

Rep. Ruben Kihuen, D-Nev., tweeted a photo of Democrats praying for their Republican baseball colleagues.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., said Wednesday morning, “We’re deeply saddened. We’re all concerned for those injured. We’ll keep them in our prayers and send them our wish for a quick and full recovery.”

He added, “The congressional baseball game is a bipartisan charity event. I know the Senate will embrace that today as we come together to express our concern and our gratitude.”

The game will go on Thursday evening as planned at Nationals Park.

Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Calif., tweeted, “We will play for charity, but also for the victims & the heroic officers who took down the shooter.”

Former member of Congress Gabrielle Giffords, who was shot in 2011, said in a statement Wednesday, “It doesn’t matter if you’re a Democrat or a Republican, nor if you’re a senator or a representative, nor a staffer or a sworn officer. If you serve the institution of Congress, you’re connected to your colleagues, current and former, by a shared sense of service to ideals far greater than yourself. This shooting is an attack on all who serve and on all who participate in our democracy.”

“I am heartbroken for the pain of Congressman Scalise, the other victims, and their family, friends, and colleagues who survived. I am thankful for the great courage of the Capitol Police, who were my protectors after I was shot and became my friends. I also know the courage it takes to recover from a shooting like this, and I know Steve and everyone there this morning have such courage in great supply,” Giffords said. “May all Americans come together today with prayers for the survivors, love for their friends and family, and the courage to go about everyday making this country its best. Our nation is resilient, and we always come back stronger.”
A gunman opens fire at a Congressional Baseball practice, injuring five people, including United States Congressman Steve Scalise (R-LA-01) who is in critical condition. The suspected gunman later died from injuries after exchanging gunfire with Capitol Police.