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TN governor, Nashville mayor issue statements on mass shooting in Las Vegas

Tennessee's top government officials are weighing in on the deadly mass shooting that happened at a country music festival in Las Vegas on Sunday.

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By
Kara Apel
NASHVILLE, TN — Tennessee's top government officials are weighing in on the deadly mass shooting that happened at a country music festival in Las Vegas on Sunday.

At least 58 people have been confirmed dead, and at least 515 people were injured in the attack.

Several Nashville artists and their crews were in the area during the shooting, including Jason Aldean, who had just taken the stage when the shots rang out.

Below is the mayor's full statement about the shooting:

An unimaginable scene of terror in Las Vegas has shocked and saddened our nation. This tragedy hits especially close to home as so many of the artists and crew represented at this music festival are Nashvillians seeking to entertain and bring joy to country music fans around the world. My heart goes out to the friends and family members of the victims of this deadly shooting, and we pray for a speedy recovery for those injured.

Gov. Bill Haslam issued this statement, specifically mentioning the West Tennessee man who was killed:

I am praying for the many people affected by the senseless act of violence in Las Vegas. In particular, Crissy and I extend our condolences and prayers to the family of Sonny Melton from West Tennessee, who was among those killed in this tragedy.

We know other Tennesseans were in attendance or performing at the event, and my thoughts go out to them as we grieve and process the enormity of this attack.

Tennessee stands with Las Vegas during this difficult time.

Statement from TN Department of Safety and Homeland Security Commissioner David W. Purkey:

My deepest condolences are with the victims and their families who suffered from the horrific event in Las Vegas. No one should fall victim at the hands of a person who wants to cause such harm and tragedy. This active shooter executed a calculated and terrifying plan that resulted in mass casualties.

It is very hard for us to understand why a person would want to cause such tragedy. We must prepare ourselves for these types of events that are becoming more common. I want to remind our citizens that if you see or hear of something that does not look or feel normal and seems suspicious, report the information to your local law enforcement. Our department offers free active shooter training for groups in hopes of educating people on what to do if you are involved in an active shooter situation. I encourage our citizens to take advantage of the training and prepare for the unfortunate.

Again, I extend my prayers to all who experienced this inconceivable event.

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