Mayor Coleman issues statement on Charleston shooting
Dylann Roof’s uncle says that the young man recently received a gun for his 21st birthday. Wednesday night, Roof entered the Emanuel AME Church in Charleston sat with the mostly black congregation through Bible study, then stood and opened fire. Witnesses told authorities that Roof said that he was there “to shoot black people.” When one man begged him to stop firing, Roof reportedly replied: “You rape our women and you’re taking over our country. And you have to go.”
Nine people were killed.
A family member identified Roof from a surveillance image released by investigators Thursday morning. The shooter was arrested hours later in Shelby, North Carolina…250 miles away from Charleston.
President Obama offered this statement:
“Any death of this sort is a tragedy. Any shooting involving multiple victims is a tragedy. There is something particularly heartbreaking about death happening in a place in which we seek solace, we seek peace.”
– President Barack Obama
Our own mayor offered these words:
“I am deeply saddened and horrified by the tragic events that have occurred in Charleston. I am calling for city wide prayer and unity by asking Columbus residents to keep the victims, their families and the communities that have been impacted by this horrific and senseless act of violence in our thoughts and prayers. We stand united with my good friend Mayor Joe Riley and the City of Charleston during this most difficult time of bereavement.”
– Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman
The Corinthian Missionary Baptist Church (3161 E. 5th Ave) on Columbus’ East Side has planned a community vigil for 7pm tonight. (jj)
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