U.S. Congressman Targeted in Shooting | President Trump’s Remarks; Gunman Killed
On Wednesday morning, Steve Scalise, Deputy Leader of the Republican Majority in the House of Representatives, was struck by multiple bullets while participating in a baseball practice game. President Trump confirmed Wednesday afternoon that the shooter was killed due to the severity of his injuries.
According to Fox News, the 51-year-old representative was shot in Virginia near the U.S. capital and was quickly transported to a hospital.
Eye witnesses stated that the gunman had asked people nearby before opening fire whether Republicans or Democrats were practicing at the location.
Local officials confirmed that Scalise was shot in the thigh, and one congressional aide was also struck in the chest.
The White House announced that President Donald Trump was informed of the shooting and Scalise’s injuries.
Trump wrote in a tweet, “Steve Scalise from Louisiana is a true friend and patriot. He was badly wounded but will recover. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and all members of Congress.”
Shooting Details
Reuters news agency provided details of the incident, stating that the shooting occurred while some Republican members were practicing for a charity game scheduled for Thursday. The shooting took place in Alexandria, Virginia, several kilometers from Washington.
One witness reported that 20 to 25 Republican representatives were present at the time of the shooting.
The shooting began at 7:15 a.m. and lasted approximately 10 minutes. Police said the attacker fired more than 50 rounds.
The shooter was reportedly apprehended. Police confirmed that the attacker was shot. Wednesday afternoon, President Trump confirmed that the gunman was killed due to the severity of his injuries.
Reuters described the attacker as an overweight white male.
About Steve Scalise
Scalise, 51, has served in the House of Representatives since 2008, representing Louisiana’s 1st District. He is a Republican and currently serves as Deputy Leader of the Republican Majority in the House of Representatives. Previously, he served 12 years in the Louisiana State Legislature.
He was born in 1965 in New Orleans and has two children. Scalise studied political science at Louisiana State University.
He supported Donald Trump in last year’s presidential election and earlier this year supported the American President’s executive order banning travel by citizens of six predominantly Muslim countries.
Source: Voice of America
