Arizona Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords shot in Tucson

A local official said that six people had been killed and 18 wounded in the shooting, when an unidentified gunman ran up and began shooting indiscriminately as Ms Giffords addressed supporters.

Ms Giffords was shot point blank in the head, according to Fox News. The shootings are said to have taken place during a public event at a Safeway supermarket in north west Tucson.

The Congresswoman was taken to University Medical Center in Tucson, about 10 miles away, where she was operated on. One of the surgeons who operated on her told a news conference. "I am very optimistic about her recovery. We cannot tell what kind of recovery but I'm as optimistic as it can get in this kind of situation."

We cannot tell what kind of recovery, but I'm as optimistic as it can get in this kind of situation. Surgeon, University Medial Center, Tuscon

National Public Radio (NPR) has said a suspect had been taken into custody.

The New York Times reported that Ms Giffords was hosting an event called "Congress on Your Corner", which allowed her to meet members of the eighth congressional district individually. She has held several such events since taking office in January 2009.

Politically, Gabrielle Giffords is pro-choice on the issue of abortion, supports gun rights, and believes that renewable energy sources should be a top public priority.

Ms Giffords is Arizona's first Jewish Congresswoman, and is married to astronaut Mark E Kelly.