Massachusetts

Mass. Politicians and Police React to Texas, Ohio Shootings

Massachusetts officials are reacting to news of two mass shootings over a 24-hour period with expressions of grief and calls to action. 

At least 20 people were killed after a gunman opened fire at a Walmart next to a mall in El Paso, Texas on Saturday morning

Less than 24 hours later, in an unrelated incident, another gunman opened fire on a line of people waiting to get inside a bar in Dayton, Ohio, killing at least nine people.

"Horrified and saddened to learn of the devastating shooting in El Paso. While no words can provide solace for those who lost loved ones to this senseless violence, Massachusetts joins the entire nation in praying for the victims, families and the entire community," Gov. Charlie Baker tweeted Saturday afternoon.

Massachusetts Senators Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey, Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito, Boston Mayor Marty Walsh, Attorney General Maura Healey and members of Congress including Seth Moulton and Joe Kennedy III also posted tweets reacting to the incident.

The Boston Police Department also posted a message on Twitter about the El Paso attack: "Our thoughts and prayers are with all those impacted by today’s mass shooting in El Paso, Texas, including all the first responders and investigators responding to what can only be described as a horrifically heart-breaking scene. #PrayForElPaso."

Walsh said he woke up Sunday to the news of the Ohio shooting. 

"My condolences to the families who are mourning the death of a loved one as a result of gun violence," Walsh tweeted. "We need gun reform now." 

Rep. Katherine Clark said the acts of violence are "fueled by the deliberate proliferation of hate." 

"The rise of white supremacist terrorism cannot be divorced from the language and policies of hate and division that are championed by this White House," Clark said in a public statement. 

Rep. Ayanna Pressley said what was witnessed in El Paso Saturday was, "an act of terrorism."

"Robbing us of the lives of more than 20 people, a terrorist emboldened by racist rhetoric, armed with weapons that should be outlawed. Enough. It’s time to channel our rage and heartbreak into real policy change."

The flag outside of the Massachusetts Statehouse is at half-staff to honor the 29 lives lost.

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