DC Council Chairman Phil Mendelson issued the following statement regarding the shootings today at the US Navy Yard:

“The senseless and shocking events of today at the US Navy Yard weigh heavily on our city. My sympathies are with the victims and their families. No one should have to live in fear of the simple act of going to work. And no one should lose a loved one because of a stranger’s hatred.”

“This tragic incident reminds us of the need for a solution to gun violence that keeps firearms out of the wrong hands.”

“I want to thank the Metropolitan Police Department and all of the first responders who stood in the line of fire to protect our citizens.”