53 Dead In Attack On Casino In Northern Mexico

More than 50 people died at a casino in northern Mexico Thursday after gunmen set the building on fire. According to reports, six to eight masked men carrying automatic rifles entered Casino Royale in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon and doused the building with gasoline before setting it on fire. Dozens of customers escaped through the main entrance of the casino, but dozens of others were trapped inside when the flames spread and blocked the door. Side and back entrances to the building had been blocked.

Rescue operations were suspended Thursday night because the building became unstable and dangerous. Government officials say 53 people have been confirmed dead. The death toll is expected to rise. The Red Cross reported at least 8 people suffered injuries.

Authorities believe the attackers are members of a drug cartel. About 500 Mexican soldiers hit the streets of Monterrey Friday to find the gunmen. Mexican President Felipe Calderon declared three days of national mourning for the victims. "With deep consternation, I express my solidarity with Nuevo Leon and the victims of this abhorrent act of terror and barbarism," he said. "These reprehensible acts require us all to persevere in the fight against gangs of unscrupulous criminals. All the support to NL,” he Tweeted.

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