Trump calls Las Vegas shooting 'act of pure evil'
(WJBK) - President Trump called Sunday's mass shooting in Las Vegas "an act of pure evil" in the hours following the horrific news. He spoke from the White House Monday morning, saying the nation is joined together in sadness, shock and grief.
Trump said the nation must stay unified. He said that although we "feel such great anger at the senseless murder of our fellow citizens, it is our love that binds us today and always will."
Trump says he will visit Las Vegas on Wednesday to meet with law enforcement, first responders and families of the victims. He ordered flags to be flown half staff.
"To the families of the victims, we are praying for you and we are here for you and we ask god to help see you through this very dark period," he said.
At least 50 people were killed and more than 400 others were injured in the shooting, which happened at a country music concert that was part of the three-day Route 91 Harvest Festival. Jason Aldean was performing when the shooting happened.
The shots came from a gunman perched on the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino, which is across the street from the concert. A Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department swat team eventually breached the hotel room and found the suspect had killed himself.
The U.S. Homeland Security Department says there is no "specific credible threat" involving other public venues. Police have not yet determined a motive in the shootings.
Trump said the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security are working with local authorities to assist with the investigation.
In the Mideast, the Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attack and said the gunman was "a soldier" who had converted to Islam months ago. But it provided no evidence, and federal authorities said they were still investigating.
The gunman was identified as Stephen Craig Paddock, 64, of Mesquite, Nevada. He had checked into the hotel room on Thursday, authorities said.
Trump tweeted his "warmest condolences and sympathies" earlier Monday morning.
During his remarks Monday, Trump also thanked the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and the first responders for their efforts.
"The speed with which they acted is miraculous and prevented further loss of life," he said.
This is the deadliest mass shooting in modern U.S. history.