UPDATE:  Two Paris police officials say security forces have ended their assault on a concert hall filled with hostages, killing at least two attackers. Neither official could be named, citing ongoing operations throughout the city.  One official described ``carnage'' inside the building, saying the attackers had tossed explosives at the hostages. Both officials said they expected the toll of victims to rise.

 

France is in a state of emergency after a series of terror attacks in Paris that have left dozens of people dead. The multi-pronged attacks involved a shooting at a restaurant, at least two bombings at other locations, and a hostage situation at a concert hall. The two bombings are reported to have been suicide bombings, and occurred near a soccer stadium where France's president was watching a match.

Hours after the attacks began, President Francois Holland made a televised statement and declared a state of emergency for the entire country. He added that France's borders would be closed to prevent any terrorists from escaping.

Scenes from Paris are terrifying. Reports of the death toll have ranged as high as 60. Firemen were seen carrying bodies away from one of the attack sites. Heavily armed police are securing the areas.

Shortly before President Hollande spoke, President Obama denounced the attacks from the White House. He called them an "outrageous attempt to terrorize innocent civilians." He added that the U.S. is prepared to offer whatever assistance France needs to bring the terrorists to justice.  ((Metro Networks Inc)

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