Singaporean Marcus Seng, on his way to the Fountains of Bellagio on Monday, October 2 heard the first barrage of gunshots, while stuck in traffic, which shook him to the core. US witnessed the most gruesome mass shooting, in its history.
Marcus Seng, the 30-year-old former Naval Officer, was seated on his motorcycle which was stuck near the traffic junction, at a distance of just 20m to 30m away from the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, which was on his left.
"I was wearing my motorbike helmet and initially thought (the sound of the gunfire) was a mini helicopter taking off from the casino," said Marcus Seng.
The volley of gunshots soon kicked in and people outside became aware that someone was firing into an open crowd at an outdoor country music festival, outside the casino. It was all a fiasco after that.
"I saw a police car heading towards the hotel. Cars were turning right to avoid the (Las Vegas) Strip. People (at the concert) were running to the streets" Seng told TODAY.
Marcus became aware of the horrific turn of events and immediately took a right turn, moving away from the area where helpless souls were ruthlessly being killed. He apparently stopped, after having driven for 2 km.
"I was worried that the other drivers would panic and run over me, so my priority was getting out of the Strip," added Seng.
His Facebook post on the same distinctively portrays his palpitation at that moment.
"Even then, the sounds of gunfire were still audible," recounted Seng, who was by then 20 minutes away from the place of his lodging. "I saw about 15 to 20 police cars rushing in the opposite direction towards the (Mandalay) hotel. I was quite impressed with their response time."
Marcus apparently plans to continue his stay in Vegas before heading to California.
"Most people will have an irrational fear (about staying), but I will continue my stay in Vegas for at least a week" he stated.
The Las Vegas shooting records to be the deadliest in America's history, cracking the foundation of world's largest democracy. A gunman, allegedly, from the 32nd floor of Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, rained bullets on the crowd, gathered for the outdoor country music festival.
Singapore's Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong expressed his condolences to US President Donald Trump and strongly condemned the shooting. The Islamic State apparently took the blame for the massacre, although authorities have been denying such claims.
Las Vegas is popular for its happening culture and dynamic vibe. The hideous attack on world's most highly spirited party place is a major hit at America's foundation. This incident, primarily after Trump's accession raises doubtful thoughts on America's stronghold. Drawing barriers between communities, therefore, is not a solution to counter terrorism. The Vegas shooting distinctively points out the loopholes in such thoughts.
