Michigan State Sen. John Proos (R-St. Joseph) was a block away from the Berrien County Courthouse when three people were killed and two were injured in a shooting there Monday afternoon, July 11.
“I was at my constituent service office just a block away from the courthouse,” Proos said. “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,” he said.
Proos extended his thoughts and prayers to the victims and their loved ones. “I am deeply saddened to learn of the shooting today in my hometown of St. Joseph,” he said.
Two court bailiffs and the suspect died in the shooting that began between 2:15 and 2:30 p.m. A cop and a civilian were both hospitalized after the shooting.
U.S. Rep. Fred Upton, a Republican who represents the St. Joseph area in Washington D.C., also spoke of the pain he felt after learning about the shooting.
“What occurred today in my hometown breaks my heart,” he said. “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.”
Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder extended his thoughts and prayers to the victims and their loved ones as well. Snyder was on his way to the city to meet with Sheriff Paul Bailey.
I’m en route to St. Joe for a briefing on the situation in Berrien County from Sheriff Bailey. Please keep those affected in your prayers.
— Governor Rick Snyder (@onetoughnerd) July 11, 2016
Other politicians, leaders and organizations tweeted their own condolences and prayers to the victims of the shooting and their loved ones:
Horrible news out of Berrien County just now. I am monitoring the situation closely and my heart breaks for everyone affected.
— Sen. Debbie Stabenow (@SenStabenow) July 11, 2016
Thoughts and prayers with the victims, and their families- along with everyone at the Berrien County Courthouse in St. Joseph, Michigan.
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 11, 2016
(1/2) Heartbroken to learn about the shooting at the #BerrienCountyCourthouse in neighboring St. Joseph, MI. –Joe
— Senator Joe Donnelly (@SenDonnelly) July 11, 2016
(2/2) My thoughts are with the victims and their families. –Joe
— Senator Joe Donnelly (@SenDonnelly) July 11, 2016
Another day, another shooting. This one even closer to home. Praying for Michigan. Praying for America. This has to stop. I’m heartbroken.
— John O’Korn (@JohnOKorn) July 11, 2016
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Berrien County Sheriff’s Department as they deal with this difficult incident. pic.twitter.com/49s0MZRIhP
— LaGrange Co. Sheriff (@LaGrange_Co_Shf) July 11, 2016
Many have reached out to show support. We appreciate the love; we will continue to serve & protect. https://t.co/lbk39o2oJ6
— MSP Public Affairs (@MichStatePolice) July 11, 2016
