President Donald Trump delivered a statement before the nation on Monday, expressing horror over the Las Vegas shooting on Sunday that claimed more than 50 lives and left hundreds injured.
The commander-in-chief prayed for healing for the victims, their families and the nation at large. He also expressed sadness, shock and grief over the tragic events, saying that the shooter — whom police identified as Stephen Paddock, a 64-year-old male from Mequite, Nevada — “brutally murdered more than 50 people and wounded hundreds more.”
“It was an act of pure evil,” Trump said. “The FBI and the Department of Homeland Security are working closely with local authorities to assit with the investigation.”
In addition to praising first responders for their quick response — one that he said was “miraculous” in nature — Trump repeatedly invoked God and faith throughout the short address.
“We cannot fathom their pain, we cannot imagine their loss.” he said. “To the families of the victims, we are praying for you and we … ask God to help see you through this very dark period. Scripture teaches us the Lord is close to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
Trump said that chaotic times create a thirst for meaning and normalcy.
“In times such of these, I know we are searching for some kind of meaning in the chaos, some kind of light in the darkness.” he said. “The answers don’t come easy.”
Trump also announced that the flag will be flown at half-staff and said that he prays for a time in which “evil is banished.”
Watch his full remarks below: