By Emily Dietzmann
The number of victims continues to change and at press time, 19 children and one teacher, including the shooter’s grandmother have been confirmed as dead and 12 injured, following a mass shooting at around 11:32 a.m. Tuesday at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, TX.
Acknowledging that this mass shooting was number 212 this year, President Joe Biden released a heavy sigh before delivering remarks Tuesday evening.
“I’d hoped when I became president I would not have to do this,” he said, as he talked about “beautiful innocent, second, third and fourth graders” who were murdered as if they were “on a battlefield,” instead of in classrooms at school.
The president also talked about the parents and loved ones “who will never be the same” and never see their children again. He asked for prayers, explaining that losing a child was like”having a piece of your soul ripped away.”
“When in God’s name are we going to stand up to the gun lobbyists,” he asked. “I am sick and tired. We have to act.”
Switching to Texas, the story dominated headlines.
“Texans across the state are grieving for the victims of this senseless crime and for the community of Uvalde,” Governor Greg Abbott said, as he addressed the media. “Cecilia and I mourn this horrific loss and we urge all Texans to come together to show our unwavering support for all who are suffering.”
Salvador Ramos — an 18-year-old-male — entered the school armed with a handgun and possibly a rifle and opened fire before, causing massive damage before he was believed to have been killed by responders.
“He shot and killed — horrifically, incomprehensibly,” said the Governor.
According to the president, there’s “a lot we don’t know yet,” but investigations are underway.
The FBI and border responders are currently at the scene, in addition to local police departments. South Texas Blood is currently sending units to Uvalde to deliver blood to the injuries.
