Five dead, eight wounded in shooting attack at Florida airport

At least five people have been shot dead and over eight injured after a gunman opened fire at the Fort Lauderdale Airport in Florida early today morning.

The attack took place at the baggage claim area in Terminal 2 of the airport.

The suspect, identified as Esteban Santiago is an Iraq war veteran, has been taken into custody.

According to the law enforcement sources, the suspect had brought the firearm in his checked luggage.

Dozens of police cars and ambulances were rushed to the scene. All those who were injured have sent to hospital for treatment.

CNN quoted Broward County Sheriff Scott Israel, as saying that 13 people were shot and five people died from their wounds.

"The citizens of Florida will not tolerate senseless acts of evil. Whoever responsible will is held accountable to the fullest extent of the law, "said Florida Governor Rick Scott.

"Monitoring the terrible situation in Florida. Just spoke to Governor Scott. Thoughts and prayers for all. Stay safe," President-elect Donald Trump said in a tweet.

Most flights scheduled to land at the airport were diverted to other airports in Florida.