In the News

ARKANSAS (KATV) — Arkansas leaders are responding after a shooting at a park in Alexandria, Virginia, on Wednesday.

Authorities say Congressman Steve Scalise and two Capitol police officers were shot while attending a baseball practice for a charity baseball game. Officials report five people were taken to a local hospital for treatment.

None of the Arkansas delegation was at the ballpark, according to their spokespeople.

Senator Tom Cotton 's office released the following statement:

His thoughts and prayers are with Rep. Scalise, staffers, Capitol police officers, and all who were impacted by this morning's shootings. He is grateful to the Capitol Police and the first responders for their swift action and all they do to keep members of Congress, our staff members, and all visitors to the Capitol safe.

Senator John Boozman spoke to Channel 7 News about the incident, saying, "This, I think, is the definition of a senseless act of violence."

Senator John Boozman wrote on Twitter:

I'm horrified at the senseless act of violence at Congressional baseball practice. Praying for @SteveScalise Capitol Police & other victims.

Rep. French Hill thanked the Capitol police on Twitter and also told his constituents he was not there:

This AM I was at the White House with constituents during the shooting in Alexandria. Every day Capitol Police protect members of Congress, our staffs, and those visiting the Capitol from possible threats. Early reporting from this morning's shooting indicates that it was Capitol Police that that sprang into action to subdue the shooter and save many lives. I am praying for my friend Steve Scalise and the other victims of this senseless attack. We should all be extremely grateful for Capitol Police this morning and the other first responders on the scene for their heroic work.

Other Arkansas members of the House of Representatives also took to Twitter to offer their thoughts and prayers.

Rep. Bruce Westerman's spokesman told Channel 7 News he was working out with Speaker Paul Ryan and other congressmen in the House gym when the shooting occurred.

"At no point was his security compromised," spokesman Ryan Saylor said.

Rep. Bruce Westerman wrote on Twitter:

I am ok. I was not at the baseball practice. My prayers are with @SteveScalise and all of the others who were injured this morning.

Rep. Rick Crawford tweeted:

Events like these are appalling. Thank you to @CapitolPolice and the detail who bravely took action this morning.

Rep. Steve Womack tweeted:

Our thoughts and prayers are with @SteveScalise and the other victims of the shooting in Alexandria, Virginia this morning.