Here are the statements just sent out by U.S. Rep. Todd Akin, R-Town and Country, and Gov. Matt Blunt, regarding Thursday night’s tragedy at Kirkwood City Hall. Also, the statement issued Friday by state Sen. Michael Gibbons, R-Kirkwood.

Here is Akin’s statement. His district includes Kirkwood:

“My thoughts and prayers are with those who have lost loved ones as well as those who anxiously await news about friends or family who may have been injured during the shootings.

“As details emerge on the tragic event tonight at the Kirkwood City Council, we are all deeply saddened by the scope of this tragic act of senseless violence that has shaken our community.”

 Here is the statement from the governor:

  “Tonight our fellow Missourians in the city of Kirkwood were terrorized by a senseless and horrific crime at an open government meeting.  We know at this hour that this crime has resulted in the loss of life and an investigation is under way.

            “The men and women of Highway Patrol Troop C responded to the reports of the shooting and were on the scene to assist the Kirkwood Police Department and St. Louis County law enforcement. I have directed the Highway Patrol to provide whatever resources are needed to assist local law enforcement in response to this horrific crime.

            “I join Missourians tonight in praying for the victims, their families and friends, and everyone in the community of Kirkwood.”

And now, Gibbons’ statement:

“We have suffered a tragedy of unimaginable proportions. Council members Connie Karr and Mike Lynch, City Public Works Director Ken Yost, and Police officers Sergeant Bill Biggs and Officer Tom Ballman were lost working for us, and our hearts and prayers are with their families and friends.

“They were vital members of our community, and they will be missed.

“Our hopes and prayers for a speedy recovery are with Mayor Mike Swoboda and Suburban Journals’ reporter Todd Smith.

“Now is a time to weep; a time to mourn. Then will be the time to heal. And heal we will. We will never be the same, but we will come together, support each other, and rise above this.”