HOUSTON, Aug. 3 (Xinhua) -- A mass shooting on Saturday killed at least 20 and injured 26 others in the U.S. state of Texas, local officials said at a press conference.

The suspect, already taken into custody, was identified as a 21-year-old white male from Texas, according to Texas Police Chief Greg Allen.

The shooting has a "nexus to a hate crime," said Allen. Meanwhile, the Federal Bureau of Investigation cautioned that more investigative work is needed to determine the nature of the crime.

Allen said the state of Texas will lead the prosecution of the suspect, adding that the state is currently looking at potential capital murder charges.

The deceased will remain at the scene while the investigation continues, Allen said.

Most of the victims were shot at a Walmart El Paso, Texas, police said, adding that the store was packed with some 3,000 people during the busy back-to-school shopping season.

"We're in shock over the tragic events," Walmart said in a statement. "We're praying for the victims, the community & our associates, as well as the first responders."