Local leaders release statements about courthouse shooting

Local and national leaders have released statements about the fatal shooting at the Berrien County Courthouse.

Sen. John Proos, R-St. Joseph

I am deeply saddened to learn of the shooting today in my hometown of St. Joseph. My thoughts and prayers as well as those of my family are with the victims and all those affected by this tragedy.
At the time of the incident, I was at my constituent service office just a block away from the courthouse. I can therefore attest to the professionalism and outright heroism of law enforcement agencies as well as first responders from all over Southwest Michigan. These men and women get up every day and put themselves in harm’s way in order to serve and protect our community. Today, they were met with violence, and apparently, several have lost their lives.
We must continue to stand together with our friends, family and neighbors who serve in law enforcement and as public servants in our local government. They make our community strong.

U.S. Rep. Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph

What occurred today in my hometown breaks my heart. My thoughts are with our entire community – our friends and neighbors. This tragic event reminds us all too well that our law enforcement officers have their lives on the line every day not knowing what that day will bring. We have lost two very able public servants and we all grieve for them and their families. As we learn more about this horrific situation, one thing is clear: we must do better to prevent these types of tragedies from occurring.

State Rep. Al Pscholka, R-Stevensville

Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the two sheriff’s bailiffs who were slain in this senseless act of violence. We hope for a speedy recovery for the deputy and others who also were injured during this tragedy.
The men and women who work in our court system and in law enforcement put their lives on the line every time they go into work. We are in a very difficult time across America right now, and this is hitting very close to home. I have faith our local law enforcement officials will sort out the details involved in the shooting in the hours and days to come.