Rep. Gottheimer: We Must 'Seek Answers And Pursue Justice' In Wake Of Las Vegas Shooting

WYCKOFF, NJ — Officials across New Jersey have expressed their sympathies and thoughts following the worst mass shooting in United States history 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.

Rep. Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5th) issued a statement following the shooting:

"This morning, America once again woke up to the deadliest mass shooting in our history. North Jersey grieves with Las Vegas and with all of the families of those lost to inexplicable and senseless violence. I am deeply grateful for the strength and the resolve of the first responders who worked to quickly neutralize the shooter and care for the injured. May their heroism serve as our inspiration as we seek answers and pursue justice in the wake of this tragedy."

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.

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.

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