MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – Many public officials have released statements in the aftermath of the shooting that took place at Michigan State University.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer released a statement following the shooting on the university’s campus, saying that this is a “uniquely American problem,” and that we “should not live like this.”
Read the Governor’s full statement below:
“Our Spartan community and Michiganders across the state are devastated. MSU’s campus is a special place for so many, and it is now the site of another senseless act of gun violence. Parents across Michigan were on pins and needles calling their kids to check in on them and tell them they love them. It doesn’t have to be this way.
Certain places are supposed to be about community, learning, or joy—elementary schools and college campuses, movie theaters and dance halls, grocery stores and workplaces. They should not be the sites of bloodshed.
This is a uniquely American problem. Too many of us scan rooms for exits when we enter them. We plan who that last text or call would go to. We should not, we cannot, accept living like this.
“I want to thank the first responders for their swift actions on the ground tonight and the medical professionals who are working to save lives. Spartans will cry and hold each other a little closer. We will mourn the loss of beautiful souls and pray for those fighting for their lives in the hospital.”
Governor Whitmer also made the decision to have the U.S. and Michigan flags at the capitol and all public buildings and grounds across the state lowered to half-staff immediately until further notice.
Senators Gary Peters and Debbie Stabenow each released their own messages in the aftermath of the tragedy.
Senator Peters, who received a masters degree from Michigan State University, released the following statement Tuesday morning:
“Colleen and I are heartbroken by the horrific shooting at Michigan State University. We’re grieving for those who lost loved ones in this nightmare and are praying for those who were injured. We’re thinking of the students, parents, staff, Spartan community — and all impacted by this tragedy. I’m also thankful to the law enforcement and first responders who rushed to the scene.”
Senator Stabenow, also an MSU alum, released the following statement on Tuesday morning:
“Once again, gun violence has touched a Michigan community.
I am grieving for my fellow Spartans today – for the lives lost, the injured, and all of the students, parents, MSU employees, and local residents who will be living with fear for a long time to come. I am grateful too for the first responders who put their own lives on the line to keep people safe.
Spartans are strong and resilient – I know that the university and community will come together and get through this. I’m so incredibly sad and angry that they have to.”
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel released the following statement:
“Once again, gun violence has touched a Michigan community.
I am grieving for my fellow Spartans today – for the lives lost, the injured, and all of the students, parents, MSU employees, and local residents who will be living with fear for a long time to come. I am grateful too for the first responders who put their own lives on the line to keep people safe.
Spartans are strong and resilient – I know that the university and community will come together and get through this. I’m so incredibly sad and angry that they have to.”
