VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) – Cities across Hampton Roads are sending words of support to their neighboring city of Virginia Beach, which suffered incredible tragedy Friday afternoon.
A gunman opened fire at the Municipal Center, killing 12 people and seriously injuring several more.
The Suffolk Virginia Sheriff’s Office posted its condolences to the victims’ families.
Similarly, the Williamsburg Police Department posted that its “hearts are with our brothers and sisters in blue…”
Sheriff Jim O’Sullivan with the Chesapeake Sheriff’s Office posted “our office is truly heartbroken. Our thoughts go out to the victims, their families and all of Virginia Beach.”
The Norfolk Police Department said “our prayers are with the Virginia Beach City Government, Virginia Beach Police Department and the families who lost a loved one in today’s tragedy. #LoveForVB.
The Newport News Police Department said “Our hearts are heavy and our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by today’s tragedy in Virginia Beach. We offer our heartfelt condolences to everyone who lost someone in this afternoon’s incident and we send our support and well wishes to the the injured as they begin the healing process, including our brother in blue with VBPD. To our partners at the Virginia Beach Police Department and the Virginia Beach Fire Department, we stand behind you and are here for you. You have our continued support and encouragement as you begin to investigate today’s tragic events. Virginia Beach, we send you our love and prayers. #LoveForVB 💔”
And the Portsmouth Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office issued this statement:
“Today’s tragic shooting in Virginia Beach was a vile attack on our Hampton Roads community, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and our entire nation. We are thankful for the brave efforts of the law-enforcement officers who responded in the face of danger and defended the public from any further violence. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of the victims, and we hope for a speedy recovery for those who are fighting as we speak this evening. We categorically condemn this horrible act against our friends and fellow citizens in Virginia Beach. The Portsmouth Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office stands in solidarity with our neighbors during this difficult time and is firmly committed to eradicating brutal and senseless instances of gun violence such as this to ensure the safety of our children, our families, and our entire communities.”
Commonwealth’s Attorney Stephanie N. Morales
Hampton Fire Department said “We are keeping the victims of this senseless tragedy, their families, Virginia Beach’s Bravest and Finest public safety professionals, all those affected, and the entire Virginia Beach community in our thoughts. We stand ready to support you.”
Chief Edward M. Brazle along with Virginia Beach EMS has lent his support and admiration for the crews that responded to the shooting yesterday.
