06.03.19

McConnell on Virginia Beach Shooting

‘So I know that all of my colleagues join me in prayer and solidarity for the victims of this evil violence, for their families, and for all the first responders who stand ready to jump between their neighbors and harm’s way.’

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks on the Senate floor regarding the shooting that took place this past Friday in Virginia Beach, Virginia:

“As millions looked forward to an early summer weekend, Virginia Beach, Virginia, became the latest American community where lives were shattered by violence. Twelve workers at the Virginia Beach Municipal Center were shot and killed when a lone gunman -- a fellow employee -- opened fire on Friday afternoon.

“Some of the victims had worked for the city for decades. One, for just under a year. All of them leave behind a grieving community that must now try to make sense of the senseless. And several more of their colleagues were injured. As the community rallies behind those in grief and in shock, the nation is also learning about the selfless heroism of the law enforcement officers whose bravery brought the violence to an end.

“Four officers moved quickly through the municipal building that housed 400 workers. They quickly located the shooter, hemmed him in to prevent further innocent casualties, and engaged him in a firefight. Reportedly one officer was actually shot, but was spared serious injury due to his bulletproof vest. And thanks to their bravery, about 45 minutes after the shooting began, the suspect was in police custody.

“Such stories of courage strike us as remarkable. They inspire gratitude and remind us of humanity’s best, just as we are faced with its worst. And they should also be occasions to remember just how many men and women across America put on their uniforms every day and report to work, knowing they might be called on for heroism like this. Hundreds of thousands of police officers and other first responders across our nation protect and serve every day.

“So I know that all of my colleagues join me in prayer and solidarity for the victims of this evil violence, for their families, and for all the first responders who stand ready to jump between their neighbors and harm’s way.”

Related Issues: Tributes