Reaction to tragic WDBJ shootings

Reactions have been pouring in from across Virginia and across the country to the tragic on-air shootings of WDBJ reporter Alison Parker and cameraman Adam Ward.

Virginia Gov. Terry McAulife: “Dorothy and I and our entire administration remain heartbroken over this morning’s senseless tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims’ families, the WDBJ staff and the entire community that is mourning this awful loss. We stand ready to offer whatever resources or assistance we can in the wake of this horrific incident. We also continue to pray for the safe recovery of Vicki Gardner, who was wounded in this terrible incident. On behalf of all Virginians, I want to thank the public safety personnel from across Virginia who responded with great professionalism and bravery to this threat. As we reflect with heavy hearts on this tragedy, it is appropriate to begin to ask questions about how we can prevent these senseless events in the future. Keeping guns out of the hands of people who would use them to harm our family, friends and loved ones is not a political issue; it is a matter of ensuring that more people can come home safely at the end of the day. We cannot rest until we have done whatever it takes to rid our society of preventable gun violence that results in tragedies like the one we are enduring today.”

U.S. Sen. Mark Warner: “We appreciate the work of local, state and federal law enforcement in identifying and locating the suspect in today’s shootings, and taking him into custody. This crime was senseless, and our thoughts are with the loved ones and friends of Alison, Adam, and the whole WDBJ staff. We’re also praying for the recovery of Vicki Gardner.”

U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine: “There are no words to express how heartbroken I am by the senseless tragedy in Moneta this morning. My deepest sympathies go out to the loved ones of Alison Parker and Adam Ward, as well as the entire WDBJ family. I ask everyone to join me in praying for Vicki Gardner who was seriously injured in this attack and all of the local authorities and first responders who are working to find the perpetrator of this horrific crime.”

Fifth District Congressman Robert Hurt: “I am deeply saddened by the horrific act of violence that occurred in Franklin County this morning. Our prayers are with the families of Alison Parker and Adam Ward and the entire WDBJ team.  We also pray for the continued recovery of Vicki Gardner, and our thoughts are with her family and her colleagues at the Smith Mountain Lake Chamber of Commerce.  I thank the local, state, and federal law enforcement personnel who worked diligently to apprehend the suspect and prevent further harm to our communities.”

Roanoke State Del. Sam Rasoul: “The news out of Smith Mountain Lake this morning is simply tragic. While this is an active investigation and we do not have all the details yet, we know that a news crew from WDBJ7 came under attack by a shooter during a live report and that the reporter and cameraman have been killed.  My deepest sympathies are with the victims and their families.  I encourage everyone to pray for the WDBJ7 team and for all those who are coping with the shock and grief that has resulted from this senseless act of violence.”