Skip to main content

Napolitano’s Statement on Mass Shooting in Sutherland Springs, TX

November 6, 2017

(WASHINGTON, DC) Today, Rep. Grace F. Napolitano issued the following statement on yesterday's mass shooting at the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs, Texas:

"Our hearts are truly broken by this evil attack on innocent people who were attending Sunday morning worship services, and we cannot imagine the horror and grief this congregation and town must be feeling at this moment. We mourn those who were killed, pray for healing for the wounded, and send our deepest sympathies to all who are affected by this tragedy.

"We have learned the shooter was discharged from the Air Force and jailed after assaulting his wife and child. He should never have had access to a gun. We must act boldly to keep guns out of the hands of domestic abusers and people with other violent histories, but we must do so without stigmatizing those with mental illness. Additional mental health and crisis counseling services must be made available to the Sutherland Springs community and all those in need after tragedies.

"We refuse to accept mass shootings as commonplace and must work together to stop gun violence in our nation. Our prayers will continue to be with members of the First Baptist Church, the entire community of Sutherland Springs, and the people of Texas in the days to come."

If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional distress, call the SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990.

# # #