Virginia GOP Shooting: Mayor Garcetti Condemns 'Senseless Violence'

LOS ANGELES, CA — Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti reacted to Wednesday's shooting in Virginia by saying it underscores the urgency of ending the epidemic of gun violence in America.

"My thoughts and prayers are with the civilians and officers wounded in today's shooting in Alexandria," Garcetti said in a statement.

"The senselessness of this burst of violence is only compounded by the fact that it struck as Majority Whip Steve Scalise and others were practicing for one of Washington's great bipartisan traditions. We should all be grateful for the many acts of heroism and compassion that saved lives this morning -- and mindful of how this tragedy underscores the urgency of ending the epidemic of gun violence in America."

At least five people were wounded, including Scalise, a Capitol Police officer, and the shooter, who later died.

RELATED: Virginia Congressional Shooting: Rep. Steve Scalise, 4 Others Hit By Gunman; Suspect Dead

Pictured, police and emergency personnel are seen near the scene where House Majority Whip Steve Scalise of Louisiana was shot during a Congressional baseball practice in Alexandria on Wednesday, June 14. (AP Photo/Cliff Owen).

City News Service