Statements on the Aurora theater shooting
“This is not only an act of extreme violence, it is also an act of depravity. It is beyond the power of words to fully express our sorrow this morning. Our prayers and condolences go first to the families of those killed, and we share the grief of everyone affected by this senseless event. We appreciate the swift work by local, state and federal law enforcement. Coloradans have a remarkable ability to support one another in times of crisis. This is one of those times.”
Gov. John Hickenlooper
“Sadly, Colorado is once again the location of a tragic and senseless act of violence that will be seared into our collective psyche for years to come. Law enforcement in Colorado has learned lessons from prior tragedies and has responded to this incident quickly, effectively and professionally. However, it is virtually impossible to prevent incidents of this nature. I am confident Colorado law enforcement is doing everything and will do everything within its power to properly investigate this matter and bring the perpetrator of this tragedy to justice. On behalf of all law enforcement in Colorado, our hearts go out to the victims and families and everyone impacted by this horrible crime.”
John Suthers, attorney general
“This was a horrible, senseless and abhorrent act. My family and I are shocked and deeply saddened this morning, and our hearts are with the victims and their families. My staff and I are in contact with and offering our support to law enforcement and medical officials as they respond to the shooting.”
Sen. Michael Bennet
“I am deeply saddened and outraged by these senseless and tragic shootings. My thoughts go out to the families and friends of those killed, and I am praying for a speedy recovery for those who were wounded. My staff and I are in close contact with officials on the ground and will offer any federal resources needed to investigate this terrible crime and bring those responsible to justice.”
Sen. Mark Udall
“My thoughts and prayers go out to all of the victims and their families in this senseless act of violence. I’ve lived in Aurora almost all of my life, and nothing like this has ever happened here. This was the type of violence that I would have expected when I served in Iraq with the U.S. Marine Corps, but never here at home.”
Rep. Mike Coffman, Aurora
“I am stunned and furious at the news of the shooting at the Aurora Century 16 movie theater this morning. Our heart and prayers are with the families and loved ones of the victims of this tragedy. Colorado is not a violent place, but we have some violent people. We are a strong and resilient community, and we will lean on each other in the days, weeks and months to come.”
Rep. Ed Perlmutter, Jefferson County
“This morning, our Colorado community has been shaken by an inexplicable and horrific act of violence against so many innocent men, women and children. We are all profoundly saddened by this senseless attack. My family and I join with all Coloradans and those across the country today in praying for the victims and their families and loved ones. While we do not yet know the identities of the victims, … I know that all of us in the Denver-area will offer our support and assistance to those impacted by this shocking tragedy.”
Rep. Diana DeGette, Denver
“The thoughts and prayers of all Coloradans are with the victims of this horrific act of violence in Aurora. I know that all of our neighbors will reach out to offer assistance and condolences to their families and loved ones. … I appreciate the work of local law enforcement officials who have acted swiftly to protect Coloradans from further violence.”
Rep. Jared Polis, Boulder
