Oklahoma airport shooting: Gunman found dead as victim identified as NFL player's father

A gunman has been found dead after the father of NFL player James Winchester was fatally shot outside Oklahoma’s Will Rogers Airport.

Michael Winchester, the father of Kansas City Chiefs snapper James Winchester, was shot and killed near the car park at the airport this morning.

He was transported to hospital but later died, authorities said.

Police have since confirmed they found the suspect dead inside a vehicle. They have not released his identity.

Winchester's agent, Ken Sarnoff, confirmed the NFL star's father had died in the shooting, writing on Twitter that "he is devastated to confirm James Winchester lost his father today to tragic & senseless gun violence at OKC".

Mr Winchester Sr, 52, was earlier identified by police as a Southwest Airlines employee. Police believe he was working when he was shot.

"It is with great sorrow that Southwest Airlines confirms that a Southwest Employee who was injured during a shooting incident today at Will Rogers World Airport in Oklahoma City has died from injuries," Southwest Airlines said in a statement to CBS Local.

"The Southwest Airlines Family is deeply saddened by the passing of our Southwest Family Member, and we extend our heartfelt sympathies and support to his family and Southwest Co-workers at this time."

Immediately following the shooting, police closed the airport as they began their investigation. Passengers were moved from the terminal to a nearby shelter.

Winchester, 27, joined the Kansas City Chiefs team last season as a snapper, ESPN reports.

"Our love and support is with James and the entire Winchester family. Our heartfelt thoughts & prayers are with you," the team advised via Twitter this morning.

 https://twitter.com/Chiefs/status/798679912995586048

Police have not suggested a motive for the shooting.