Texas synagogue: suspect dead and hostages safe, say authorities

Man who had taken hostages in a Texas synagogue has been pronounced dead by authorities. The synagogue's rabbi was among the hostages taken, according to local police.

A global inquiry with investigators across Great Britain and Israel, has been launched to understand the motive behind the man's attack on the synagogue, an FBI agent said in a briefing to reporters. The agent, however, refused to divulge the man's identity.

Officials said investigators have not positively identified the man and cautioned that the information was based on a preliminary investigation.

Authorities are working on understanding the man's motive behind the attack as he demanded a release of Pakistani neuroscientist Aafia Siddiqui, who is suspected of having ties with the Al-Qaeda.

The man also demanded to speak to Siddiqui who is serving a 86-year sentence at a federal prison in Fort Worth, Texas.

Also Watch: Man takes hostages at U.S. synagogue, demands release of Pakistani neuroscientist Aafia Siddiqui