Tragedy struck an Amish community in Pennsylvania today, when a gunman took several female hostages in their school, killing three and wounding seven.

He then took his own life.

The Amish share many traditions with Hutterites, and colonies in the Portage area shocked.

Fairholme Colony School Principal Anna Maendel says they'll talk to their kids about what's happened, answering questions and addressing fears. She notes colony kids take any school shooting seriously.

Maendel believes it's too soon to know how the colonies will react, although she doesn't think they'll begin mounting guards. She's certain the incident will be discussed at the colony and school division level.

Maendel adds the shooting is close to home because like the Amish, their schools are small with no security.