New Jersey Reacts To Las Vegas Shooting

LAS VEGAS, NV — New Jersey leaders reacted with horror — and some called for action — after at least 58 people were killed and more than 515 injured when a gunman opened fire at a country music concert in Las Vegas Sunday night.

It is not yet known how many ties there were to New Jersey as of 12:30 p.m. But NJSPBA President Patrick Colligan told NJ101.5 that he was staying in Las Vegas at the Mandalay Bay when the gunman opened fire on the crowd.

Colligan was in the lobby area at 10:08 p.m. local time when the gunman began opening fire on the 22,000-person crowd that gathered for a Jason Aldean concert. The barrage lasted for about 30 seconds and then there was a pause before the shots started again. People climbed over each other, running for safety as people were shot around them.

Las Vegas Sheriff Joe Lombardo said the shooter is dead and identified him as 64-year-old Stephen Paddock of Mesquite, Nevada. Lombardo said that Paddock had killed himself before officers entered the hotel room. Authorities believe Paddock acted alone.

Colligan, whose NJ101.5 interview was captured on video, spoke about the chaotic scene at the hotel when the shooter began firing from the hotel:

Some lawmakers, such as Sen. Corey Booker, called for the country to have the resolve "to do more to stop such evil."

Booker, a Democrat who has advocated for strong gun control in the past, said, "We must take common sense, widely supported steps to reduce such violence."

Read more:

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Most New Jersey leaders, like Senate President Steve Sweeney, expressed shock and horror, and offered condolences to those impacted by the tragedy.

“This is a senseless and horrific tragedy that has taken the lives and wounded innocent victims," he said. "The numbers are staggering and the loss of life is devastating. My heart breaks for the victims, their families, friends and loved ones.”

Rep. Frank Pallone, a Republican from Monmouth/Middlesex, said he is "devastated and horrified by the tragedy that took place in Las Vegas last night."

"This senseless act is abhorrent and contrary to the principles that we hold dear. I know that all Americans will stand with the victims, their families and the entire city of Las Vegas during this difficult time," he said.

“Las Vegas first responders displayed great courage during the shooting. We should honor their heroism by doing whatever we can to stand against this attack and by vowing to never give into fear and violence.”

Here are other reactions from New Jersey leaders:

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