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Flags at half-staff in the nation's capitol -- on a day that saw one of the worst mass shootings in U.S. history.

Wiping away tears, President Barack Obama addressed the country.

SOUNDBITE: President Barack Obama

"So our hearts are broken today for the parents and grandparents, sisters and brothers of these little children, and for the families of the adults who were lost."

Outside the White House, anti-gun protesters called for an end to shooting rampages that have plagued the U.S recently

The death toll now stands at 27 in the small Connecticut town of Newtown -- after a lone gunman opened fire in a elementary school -- armed with four weapons and a bullet proof vest.

Among the dead - twenty children - and seven adults - including the shooter.

As news of the incident spread, tearful children and parents gathered at Sandy Hook Elementary School - that educates kindergartners through fourth graders - aged roughly five to ten.

After the day's tragic events, late Friday, mourners gathered at an area Church to remember the dead.

xxx Late Friday - vigil...