Update (1833 EST): Footage shows Miguel Cruz being escorted from the Ministry building under guard. Both the D.R. President and Haitian government have issued statements offering condolences for Mera’s family who also issued a statement forgiving Cruz for the killing.

Update 1519: Mera called off personal security moments before close friend Miguel Cruz shot him during a heated discussion.

Two hours ago gunshots rang out inside the Environmental Ministry offices in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. It is now confirmed the Environmental Minister Orlando Jorge Mera has been killed, for reasons so far a mystery.

As SWAT entered the building, employees of the Ministry were seen scaling the walls in an attempt to escape. As of 10 minutes ago the shooter is still inside the ministry offices.

This is developing.