UPDATE: CNN reports that nine people are in critical condition after the shooting.

UPDATE: CNN is now calling the Colorado shooting the biggest mass shooting in U.S. history.

UPDATE: A statement from Rave Cinemas: We are incredibly saddened by the shooting in Colorado. Our hearts go out to the families affected by this tragedy.

We take security very seriously and will continue to make every effort to ensure that our moviegoers are safe when they visit our theaters. In the wake of the events in Colorado, each of our theaters across the country is evaluating the security it has in place and whether or not to increase safety measures, and we will provide them with additional support and resources if they need them."

UPDATE: CNN reports that suspected shooter James Holmes obtained his guns legally.

UPDATE: A new statement from AMC: "At this time, our show schedules circuit-wide will not change. We will not allow any guests into our theatres in costumes that make other guests feel uncomfortable and we will not permit face-covering masks or fake weapons inside our buildings. If guests wish to exchange or refund any tickets, we will honor our existing policy and do as our guests wish. We are taking necessary precautions to ensure our guests who wish to enjoy a movie this weekend can do so with as much peace of mind as possible in these circumstances."

UPDATE: A profile of suspected shooter James Holmes is available over at Huffington Post.

UPDATE: 71 people were shot. The original number released was 38. The fatality count is still 12.

From CNN's reporting:

"A heavily armed gunman attacked an Aurora, Colorado, movie theater early Friday, tossing tear gas before opening fire on the terrified audience and killing 12 and wounding 38, authorities said. The theater was showing the new Batman movie, "The Dark Knight Rises."

The suspect has been identified as 24-yr.-old James Holmes. The shooting happened at a Cinemark theater.

Official statement from Cinemark:

Cinemark is deeply saddened about this tragic incident. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families and loved ones, our employees, and the Aurora community. We are grateful for the quick and professional reaction of all local law enforcement and emergency responders. Cinemark is working closely with the Aurora Police Department and local law enforcement.

Barack Obama's official statement:

Michelle and I are shocked and saddened by the horrific and tragic shooting in Colorado. Federal and local law enforcement are still responding, and my Administration will do everything that we can to support the people of Aurora in this extraordinarily difficult time. We are committed to bringing whoever was responsible to justice, ensuring the safety of our people, and caring for those who have been wounded. As we do when confronted by moments of darkness and challenge, we must now come together as one American family. All of us must have the people of Aurora in our thoughts and prayers as they confront the loss of family, friends, and neighbors, and we must stand together with them in the challenging hours and days to come.

Mitt Romney's official statement:

Ann and I are deeply saddened by the news of the senseless violence that took the lives of 15 people in Colorado and injured dozens more. We are praying for the families and loved ones of the victims during this time of deep shock and immense grief. We expect that the person responsible for this terrible crime will be quickly brought to justice.

MPAA leader Chris Dodd's official statement:

We share the shock and sadness of everyone in the motion picture community at the news of this terrible event. We extend our prayers and deepest sympathies to the victims, their loved ones and all those affected by this tragedy.

Official statement from Regal:

We are profoundly saddened by the tragedy that occurred at a Denver area theatre and are concerned for the victims and their families. The security and safety of our guests and staff is always our number one priority. As is our custom, we will continue to monitor the situation and adjust our security needs as necessary. In the meantime, our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families.