WASHINGTON, DC - House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement in response to the tragic shooting of moviegoers in Aurora, Colorado this morning:

“I join in mourning the tragic loss of life in Colorado this morning.  The families of the victims, the many injured, and all those in Aurora are in my thoughts and in my prayers.  It is in times like these that Americans have always rallied together as one community and one family, and we do so again today.  I commend the heroism of our first responders from local and federal law enforcement and area hospitals, who have done an outstanding job in the face of great difficulty. 

"As the people of Aurora find themselves facing their darkest hour, I hope they find comfort knowing that the memories of the lost will never fade, their community will remain strong, and that the nation stands united alongside them as their process of healing begins.”