‘A loss that feels unimaginable’, and ‘absolutely broken’: How local politicians have respondedpublished at 16:33 BST
16:33 BST
Image source, ReutersImage caption,
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek spoke at a candlelight vigil at Drake Park for victims of the shooting last night
Four people have died, including three children, after a school shooting at Silver Rail Elementary School in the US state of Oregon yesterday. Here is a reminder of how some politicians have responded:
Bend Mayor Melanie Kebler said it was an “awful day” for the community which had a “profound impact on so many people, especially the children, families, educators and school staff whose lives have been forever changed”.
“I’m struggling to make sense of a loss that feels unimaginable,” she told a press conference yesterday evening, and added, addressing those impacted: “We grieve alongside you and we will get through this together.”
Governor Tina Kotek told the same press conference that her heart is “absolutely broken” and the Oregon state is ready to support those in the community “in whatever you need”.
She also thanked the “quick thinking and courage” of school staff, parents and first responders at the scene, and extended her thoughts to the community member who “heroically intervened to stop further loss of life”:
“Your actions carry a heavy emotional burden and I just want you to know that my thoughts are with you as well.”
Oregon Senator Jeff Merkley asked people to “hold the students, teachers, families, and entire Silver Rail Elementary School community in your hearts” as details emerge about the victims.
In a post on X, he said he was grateful to first responders and emergency personnel who responded to the “horrific shooting”.