The shooting occurred at Oikos University at approximately 10:30 a.m. Oakland police performed a room-by-room search of the building searching for suspects, students and faculty.
"As it stands now, we are confirming that a total of 10 people were injured during this morning's shooting, seven of which are fatalities. One person has been taken into custody in connection with this shooting," said Oakland police spokeswoman Cynthia Perkins.
Five people were pronounced dead at the scene. Two others died in a hospital. About 35 people were in the building when the shooting began, according to police.
A suspect was arrested in Alameda, about three miles from campus. He reportedly surrendered. An early report described the shooter as a heavyset Korean man in his 40s wearing khaki clothing.
The suspect was a former nursing student who was apparently kicked out of the university several months ago.
In a 6 p.m. PT news conference, Oakland Police identified the suspect as 43-year-old One L. Goh. Police said within an hour and a half of the shooting report, police had a suspect photo and were en route to two locations where the suspect was believed to have residence or relatives. Then Goh was arrested in Alameda.
An initial report indicated Goh was in a classroom when he stood up and started shooting.
Police Chief Howard Jordan initially reported that authorities recovered the weapon used during the rampage, but later clarified that police only recovered enough ballistics evidence to determine that a handgun was used in the rampage.
"It's unknown at this time what the relationship was between the shooter and any students or the university itself," said Oakland Police Officer Johnna Watson.
Police Chief Howard Jordan said police recovered the weapon they believe Goh used during the rampage.
"We heard at least a half-a-dozen gunshots and we heard somebody say 'He has a gun,' or 'Somebody has a gun,' and then I evacuated the classroom right away," said Lucas Garcia, a teacher at the school.
A Highland Hospital spokeswoman said at least four victims in the incident were treated at that hospital.
According to its website, Oikos University offers studies in theology, music, nursing and Asian medicine.
"The tragic loss of life at Oikos University today is shocking and sad. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims, their families and friends and the entire community affected by this senseless act of violence," said Governor Jerry Brown in a statement Monday afternoon.
