Shimkus Statement on Shootings in Washington

Congressman John Shimkus released a statement following the shootings in Washington, DC at Wednesday morning's practice for the Congressional Baseball Game for charity. Shimkus was not at the practice.

"My prayers are with my good friend and DC roommate, Steve Scalise, as well as the Capitol police officers, members, staff and all those affected by today's shootings. While we don't yet fully know the motive behind this shameful act of evil, there is no doubt the heroism of the Capitol Police saved lives this morning. I am deeply thankful for their bravery, and I hope for speedy recoveries for all those wounded in this cowardly assault."

The man identified as the shooter has died from his wounds received when police returned fire. He was 66-year-old James T. Hodgkinson of Belleville, Illinois. Belleville is in Shimkus' congressional district.

Hodgkinson wounded five people including Scalise, who is House Majority Whip, two police officers, and two others. All of those wounded by Hodgkinson are expected to recover from their injuries.