Christchurch terror attack: 5 things you need to know

By Samuel Smith, Deputy Managing Editor Friday, March 15, 2019

Gunmen struck two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, on Friday, leaving 49 dead and 48 with serious injuries in attacks that were likely motivated by anti-immigrant animus.

The acts of violence were committed as worshipers gathered for prayers around lunchtime at Al Noor Mosque and Linwood Mosque in Central Christchurch, the largest city on New Zealand’s South Island.

Prime Minister Jacinda Arder described the mass shootings as a terrorist attack and one of the Pacific nation's "darkest days." 

Here's a list of five important things you need to know about Friday’s attacks.