Teenager accused of US shootings faces court

THE white man accused of killing 10 black people at a supermarket in Buffalo, New York state, has appeared in court, standing silently during brief proceedings attended by some relatives of the victims after a grand jury indicted him.

- CAROLINE THOMPSON

Payton Gendron, 18, wore an orange jail uniform, a mask, and handcuffs.

As he was led out yesterday, someone shouted "Payton, you're a coward!" from the courtroom gallery. He is being held in jail without bail.

Assistant district attorney Gary Hackbush said the first-degree murder indictment, which covers all 10 deaths, was handed up on Wednesday.

Thirteen people in all were shot last Saturday at the Tops Friendly Market in a predominantly black neighbourhood of Buffalo.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the possibility of hate crime and terrorism charges.

District attorney John Flynn said his office would not comment on the case while the grand jury investigation continues.

Calls seeking comment were made to Gendron's lawyers.