Officials react to shooting with prayers, concern

Local and state officials have reacted to the shooting deaths of four people early Sunday morning in Kansas City, Kansas, with prayers and concern.

Four people were killed and five other persons were wounded at a shooting at a bar at 10th and Central Avenue in Kansas City, Kansas, about 1:30 a.m. Sunday.

Kansas City, Kansas, Mayor David Alvey on Sunday morning said his prayers were with the victims of the shooting, and their families.

Other officials also commented on the shootings, mostly on social media:

From Unified Government Commissioner Brian McKiernan, 2nd District:

“As I posted earlier, I am tremendously saddened by the unfortunate events that occurred overnight near 10th and Central.

“Whatever I write here will be insignificant and possibly ring hollow in the broader picture, but I offer these thoughts and encouragements.

“Four generations of my family have lived within blocks of this location. I’ve been here my whole life and here’s what I know about this neighborhood… it’s a good neighborhood full of good people who work hard every day to make better lives for themselves and their families. Unfortunately, there are times when even good people encounter unexpected and unwanted difficulties and challenges and sadnesses in their lives that can be truly tragic.

“We do not know all of the individual circumstances that contributed to the very unfortunate events of last night. We may never know and, in some ways, those individual circumstances are irrelevant.

“However, when we humans are faced with tragedy and hardship, we all want to do something good and positive.

“Although it won’t change what has already happened, here are my suggestions for two things we can all do, starting today, to build an ever stronger community… no matter where we live.

“Reach out to the members of your immediate and extended families and offer them the love and care and support that will strengthen them as they each go through their everyday lives.

“Reach out to your neighbors and your community partners and get to know them better and renew your commitment to work with them to improve the physical, mental and spiritual health of everyone in our community.

“I renew my commitment to advocate on behalf of all the people in my neighborhood and in District 2.

“I wish peace for all of you.”

From Gov. Laura Kelly:

“We’re mourning the victims of yet another mass shooting, this time in Kansas City, Kan., where four people were killed and another five wounded.

“I continue to be frustrated that these mass shootings and killings occur with regular frequency. Our nation has an obligation to address this ongoing public health crisis.

“For now, we all must pull together to help the community and those affected by this senseless tragedy heal. It’s important to not only remember victims of the shooting, but also their loved ones left behind. Our attention is on them now and in the days and weeks to come.

“I also want to thank the emergency responders who quickly and bravely headed to the scene to provide aid and security. We’ll continue working with law enforcement officials to bring those responsible to justice.”

From U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids, D-3rd Dist:

“My heart breaks for everyone impacted by the senseless shooting that took place in Kansas City early this morning. Our office will continue to monitor the situation and we thank the law enforcement and first responders who are investigating this tragedy.”

From U.S. Sen. Pat Roberts, R-Kansas:

“Franki and I are saddened by the senseless shooting that took place in Kansas City early this morning. Our prayers are with the victims and their loved ones. Thank you to the first responders and law enforcement who continue to investigate this shooting.”

From U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kansas:

“Please join Robba and I in praying for the victims and their families after last night’s senseless act of violence in Kansas City, Kan. If you are in the area, please stay safe and keep your thoughts with our law enforcement and first responders as the situation continues to develop.”