AMC Theatres: No costumes or masks - 13 WTHR Indianapolis

AMC Theatres says it will no longer allow masks, costumes or fake weapons in its buildings in the wake of a deadly shooting in Aurora, Colorado.

James Holmes, 24, was arrested in connection with the shooting overnight at a crowded movie theater. He reportedly shot over 70 people, killing 12 and wounding at least 59. The victims were all attending the premiere of "The Dark Knight Rises," the latest Batman movie.

Holmes reportedly had dyed his hair red and told officers that he was the "Joker," a reference to one of the villains in the Batman films. One witness account said Holmes exited the theater at one point, only to wait until movie-goers ran out so he could shoot at them. Another witness said Holmes walked up the aisles shooting at random.

AMC released this statement late Friday:

"AMC Theatres is deeply saddened by the Aurora tragedy. Movie going is part of our social fabric and this senseless act shakes us to our core. We're reinforcing our security procedures with our theatre teams, which we cannot discuss in detail for obvious, safety reasons. Local law enforcement agencies, our landlords and their and our local security teams are stepping up nationwide to ensure we provide the safest environment possible for our guests. We couldn't be more grateful for their collective support.

At this time, our show schedules circuit-wide will not change. We will not allow any guests into our theatres in costumes that make other guests feel uncomfortable and we will not permit face-covering masks or fake weapons inside our buildings. If guests wish to exchange or refund any tickets, we will honor our existing policy and do as our guests wish. We are taking necessary precautions to ensure our guests who wish to enjoy a movie this weekend can do so with as much peace of mind as possible in these circumstances."