Rep. Steve Knight, (CA-25), released a statement this week in response to the wounding of House Majority Whip Steve Scalise, several law enforcement officers and a congressional aide during a practice session in Arlington, Va., for the annual Congressional Baseball Game for Charity.
“[On Wednesday], a gunman opened fire on members of Congress, staff and security officers during a practice session for the Congressional Baseball Game for Charity. Majority Whip Scalise, an aide to Rep. Roger Williams, and several law enforcement officers were shot during the incident. I am glad to hear everyone is reported to be in stable condition and am praying for a speedy and full recovery. I am also extremely thankful for the rapid response and bravery from the U.S. Capitol Police and those at the scene to provide first-aid to the victims and detain the suspect. We owe a debt of gratitude to the Capitol Police and those who put their lives on the line every day to protect us, our staffs and visitors to the U.S. Capitol.”
A gunman, later identified as James T. Hodgkinson of Illinois, unleashed a barrage shots from a semi-automatic rifle and wounded the five individuals before being killed by return gunfire from Capitol Police. Scalise was shot in the hip and was listed initially in critical condition. He has since undergone three surgeries.
President Donald Trump praised the quick action of the Capitol Police officers.
“Many lives would have been lost, if not for the heroic actions of two Capitol Police officers who took down the gunman despite sustaining gunshot wounds during a very, very brutal assault,” President Trump said. “We may have our differences, but we do well in times like these to remember that everyone who serves our nation’s capitol is here because, above all, they love their country.”
