Former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe shot while giving campaign speech

Former Japanese prime minister was shot while giving a speech in western Japan.

Former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has been shot while giving a campaign speech in western Japan.

NHK reported that Abe was bleeding when he collapsed.

Abe's heart is in a "stopped condition," ABC News has learned, and there are no vital signs.

Two shots were heard. The former prime minister was shot in the back and bleeding on-site when he was transported to a hospital.

Authorities have identified the suspect as Tetsuya Yamagami, 41, according to NHK, and he is in custody. A weapon, described as a shotgun, was recovered at the scene.

U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel tweeted late Thursday night, "We are all saddened and shocked by the shooting of former Prime Minister Abe Shinzo."

"Abe-san has been an outstanding leader of Japan and unwavering ally of the U.S.," he said. "The U.S. Government and American people are praying for the well-being of Abe-san, his family, & people of Japan."