Las Vegas Shootings: President Trump, Governor Order Flags Flown At Half-Staff

PROVIDENCE, RI — In memory of the 58 people killed in this morning's Las Vegas mass shooting, the president issued a proclamation calling for flags to be flown at half-staff. Gov. Gina Raimondo's office said Rhode Island will follow suit. She has directed flags to be flown at half-staff, and political leaders have expressed sorrow as well as renewed calls for gun control.

Here is a roundup:

Gov. Raimondo

In accordance with a Presidential Proclamation, Governor Gina M. Raimondo has ordered that the U.S. and Rhode Island flags at all state facilities and buildings be flown at half-staff until sunset on October 6, 2017 in honor of the victims of the shooting in Las Vegas.

"This morning, millions of Americans woke up to news of horror and devastation from Las Vegas," said Governor Raimondo. "Rhode Islanders stand with the people of Nevada, and send our condolences to the family and friends of those lost. In the wake of this senseless tragedy, there have been glimmers of hope in the stories of the brave first responders and fellow concertgoers who risked their lives to help others. While our nation mourns, let us also honor those courageous and selfless acts."

Raimondo also asks Rhode Islanders to lower their flags as a mark of respect.

Cong. Langevin

Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) issued the following statement regarding last night's mass shooting in Las Vegas, Nevada:

“The developing news out of Las Vegas is utterly shocking and horrifying. My heart aches for the victims of last night’s shooting, concertgoers who were enjoying a night of music before a shooter took their lives in a senseless act of violence. I am also immensely grateful for the first responders and medical professionals working to tend the hundreds of wounded.

“Now, more than ever, we must unite to combat the growing epidemic of violence in this country. As Las Vegas law enforcement continues their investigation, I pray for the victims and their families and that we as a society can join together to prevent future such attacks.”

Cong. David Cicilline

U.S. Congressman David N. Cicilline (D-RI), who serves as Vice Chair of the House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force, issued the following statement today:

“Last night, a gunman opened fire on the Las Vegas Strip. The victims were innocent Americans attending a country music festival. 50 are dead. More than 400 were taken to area hospitals. I am keeping them in my thoughts and prayers today.”

“This was the worst mass shooting in American history. And every day, in cities and towns across America, this epidemic of gun violence is ending lives and destroying families. It has to stop. And Congress has the responsibility to act.”

“To my Republican colleagues who control the House – please join us to and show the American people we are united in the face of this crisis. Let’s come together and end this violence.”

Sen. Whitehouse

Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, released the following statement regarding the shooting in Las Vegas, Nevada last night:

“The horror on the streets of Las Vegas is unimaginable. My heart goes out to the victims of this senseless violence, to their loved ones, and to all those affected. Thank you to the first responders for their brave work.

“While we have much to learn about this terrible incident, we know mass shootings are all too familiar in America. And we know we can protect our communities better. How many lives must be lost before we act?”

Atty. Gen. Peter Kilmartin

Attorney General Peter F. Kilmartin issued the following statement in response to the mass shooting in Las Vegas last evening:

“Our hearts go out to the families and friends of the hundreds of people that were killed or injured in the tragic events that unfolded last evening in Las Vegas. We owe deep gratitude to law enforcement officials, firefighters, EMTs, medical staff and all those on the ground who are doing everything they can to assist those affected.

“I was heartened to learn, but not surprised, of the bravery of one of our own – Rhode Island State Police Detective Conor O’Donnell – who was among the off-duty law enforcement officials at the concert who helped the victims on the scene. I have no doubt that the quick thinking by the law enforcement officials in attendance helped save many lives.

“This is still very early in the investigation, and we will learn much more about the motives of the shooter in the coming days. Needless to say, this is simply the latest and deadliest example of gun violence in this country, which has taken the lives of far too many innocent people. For now, though, let us all pray for the victims and their families, as well as for our first responders.”

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