Langevin & Cicilline: Prayers for Capitol Shooting Victims

PROVIDENCE, RI — U.S. Congs. Jim Langevin and David Cicilline, both Democrats, made statements about Wednesday morning's shooting in Alexandria. Their colleague, Republican Cong. Steve Scalise, was shot and had to drag himself over a ball field, where the Republicans were practicing for a charity event, to escape a gunman. Scalise is the third highest ranking Republican in the House and the House Majority Whip. He represents Louisiana.

According to the Patch National Desk, "witnesses have estimated at least 50 rounds were fired from what authorities described as an M4 assault weapon and the suspect also carried a handgun as he moved from the outfield to the infield firing."

Five people were taken to area hospitals. Scalise is undergoing surgery at MedStar Washington Hospital Center. He was able to speak to his wife before he went into the operating room, his office said.

The suspect was shot and has died, according to President Trump.

Sen. Bernie Sanders said he was disgusted to learn the gunman had been one of his supporters. CBS News is reporting James. T. Hodgkinson had volunteered on Sanders' campaign.

Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) released the following statement regarding today’s reports of a shooting at a Congressional baseball practice in Alexandria, Virginia:

“I am shocked and saddened by the news of this horrible and senseless shooting at a Congressional baseball practice in Virginia this morning. My thoughts and prayers go out to House Majority Whip Steve Scalise and the others injured during this heinous act. I salute the first responders for their rapid response and the brave Capitol Police officers who put their lives on the line to protect Congress each and every day.”

Cicilline said much the same.

“I was shocked and angered to learn of this horrible, cowardly shooting. My thoughts and prayers are with my colleague, Steve Scalise, and all those who were injured this morning.”

“I am extraordinarily grateful for the heroic actions of the Capitol Police. There is no question that their bravery saved the lives of my colleagues, their staff, and others who were at the ballpark. I am thankful for their service, and I will continue to pray for the full and speedy recovery of the victims in Alexandria.”

Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse also commented to say, “I am shocked and disturbed by the reports of the shooting incident in Virginia this morning. My heart goes out to my fellow members of Congress, to their staffers, to the Capitol Police officers, and to the others at the scene.”

Related Story: Alexandria Shooting: Rep. Scalise, 4 Others Hit By Gunfire

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).