Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer releases statement on Conn. shooting

Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer released the following statement after a school shooting claimed the lives of nearly 30 people in Newtown, Conn.

The statement has not been altered in any way.

“Like all Americans, I am horrified, outraged and heartbroken at the news of today’s senseless shooting spree at a school in Newtown, Connecticut. More than two-dozen of our fellow Americans were lost – innocent young lives have been cut short.

“As law enforcement works to put together the pieces of this tragedy in the coming days, I ask that all Arizonans join me in praying for Newtown. Pray for the schoolchildren too young and innocent to comprehend such cruelty. Pray for those who were unjustly taken from their loved ones, and for the families shaken by a sense of grief difficult to imagine. Finally, pray that Americans rally together – as we do in trying and tragic times – to cope with this heartbreak.

“Today, Arizona stands with Connecticut. Let us hold the town of Newtown and its residents in our hearts and prayers. In memory of the victims of this tragedy, and in coordination with the President’s order, I have asked that flags at all State buildings be lowered until sunset on December 18, 2012. I encourage all Arizonans to participate in this tribute.”