“We woke up to news of a tragedy that reminds us all of ways we are united as an American Family,” said President Obama.
At a midnight showing of the film, James Holmes, 24, shot 12 dead and left 50 injured. Before opening fire on the packed audience, the suspect released a noxious gas that made it difficult for victims to escape. The gunman and former Colorado University Medical School student was apprehended in the parking lot of the theater with a rifle, a shotgun and two handguns in his possession, reports the L.A. Times. He did not resist arrest.
“Michelle and I are shocked and saddened by the horrific and tragic shooting in Colorado,” said the president. “Federal and local law enforcement are still responding, and my Administration will do everything that we can to support the people of Aurora in this extraordinarily difficult time.”
His statement concluded by asking everyone to keep the town of Aurora in their thoughts and prayers.