Congressman Steve Scalise, shot at Virginia baseball practice, critical
Congressman Steve Scalise, who was shot at a baseball practice in Virginia, is critical, said the MedStar Washington Hospital Center. A Congressional aide, a lobbyist and a cop were also wounded in the firing. Another twisted an ankle. Scalise, who was shot in the left hip, had severe bleeding, broken bones and injuries to internal organs. He has undergone surgery, but would need more.
US House majority whip shot at congressional baseball practice
US House Majority Whip Steve Scalise has been shot in the hip by a rifle-armed gunman who opened fire at a baseball practice in Virginia. Multiple Congressional aides were also hit, including one who was shot in the chest. US Capital Police shot the gunman, apprehended him and took him to hospital.
Scalise has important leadership role in US government
Sources told Fox News that the shooting began at 7:15 am local time and lasted around 10 minutes. Scalise, as House majority whip, has a crucial leadership role both in the Republican party and the US government and was given a security detail. Representative Mo Brooks, who was at the scene, reportedly stopped Scalise's bleeding by using a belt as a tourniquet.
Shooter had "strong views" against Republicans
The shooter has been identified as 66-year-old James T Hodgkinson from Belleville, Illinois, a Bernie Sanders supporter. He had a criminal history, including battery, aiding damage to a motor vehicle and speeding. The first two had been dismissed. His Facebook page showed much anti-Republican activity; in March, he wrote, "It's Time to Destroy Trump & Co." Hodgkinson died in retaliatory firing by police.
No place for violence in our society, says Sanders
Senator Sanders released a statement condemning the "despicable" act. "I have been informed the alleged shooter at the Republican baseball practice is someone who apparently volunteered on my presidential campaign. I am sickened," he said, adding, "Violence of any kind is unacceptable in our society."
