ALLEN (CBSNewsTexas.com) — Following the deaths of eight shooting victims at an Allen mall on Saturday, Texas politicians they are publicly sharing their pain and frustration.
Keith Self, the U.S. representative for Texas’ third congressional district, issued a statement shortly after the tragic shooting. The 3rd Congressional District covers areas north and northeast of Dallas, including Allen.
“We are shocked by the tragic news of the shootings that took place today at the Allen Premium Outlets. Our prayers are with the victims and their families and all law enforcement on the scene. This is an ongoing situation, but Allen PD is in full control. of the scene. One shooter is down and there are multiple casualties. They are continuing to work to ensure the scene is safe. The public is asked to stay away from this area while this investigation continues.”
Gov. Greg Abbott said he has been in contact with state and local leaders and has “offered the full support of the state of Texas.”
“Our hearts go out to the people of Allen, Texas tonight during this unspeakable tragedy. I have been in contact with Mayor Fulk and DPS Director McCraw as well as other state and local leaders and have offered my full support of the State of Texas to local officials. to ensure that all necessary assistance and resources are rapidly deployed, including DPS officers, Texas Rangers and investigative resources.”
Senator Ted Cruz said his team has been in contact with local officials and has also offered “all necessary support to bring justice and help those in need.”
“Heidi and I are praying for the families of the victims of the horrific mall shooting in Allen, Texas. We are also praying for the broader Collin County community that is shaken by this tragedy.
My team is in contact with local officials and I have offered all the necessary support to bring justice and help those in need. Thank you to the amazing law enforcement who stopped the monster who committed this evil act.”
Other state leaders including Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and Attorney General Ken Paxton have also offered their condolences:
Lt. Gov. Patrick
“Please join Jan and me in mourning the victims of the unspeakable tragedy in Allen. Please join us in prayer for the families and friends of the victims along with the residents of Allen. We thank our brave first responders who were deployed to stop the shooter and investigate this horrific crime. We are grateful for their bravery and courage.”
Attorney General Paxton
“Pray for Allen, Texas. Pray for these families and for law enforcement as they try to apprehend this shooter.”
At a news conference Saturday night, state Rep. Jeff Leach said a vigil for the victims will be held at Cottonwood Creek Church in Allen at 5 p.m. Sunday. Shortly before, he issued the following statement:
“I am deeply saddened by the horrific events that occurred today at the Allen Premium Outlets in the heart of the 67th House District, and I am praying for the victims and all those affected by this horrific tragedy. I returned to Allen from the Capitol. and am at the scene, working with our law enforcement agencies to provide the necessary support I thank the Allen Police Department, the Collin County Sheriff’s Office, Texas DPS, and all of our law enforcement agencies law, to respond heroically, quickly and to take immediate action. I will continue to monitor the situation and keep you updated with information as I receive it.”
The FBI is assisting the Allen Police Department in this investigation and asks anyone with information about the shooting to call 1-800-CALL-FBI.
CBS Texas Staff
