Gov. Orders Flags to Half-Staff, Courtney Responds to D.C. Tragedy and More ...

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy, in response to a proclamation issued Monday evening by President Barack Obama, has directed all U.S. and state flags in Connecticut to fly at half-staff until sunset on September 20, 2013 in honor of the victims of the senseless acts of violence perpetrated today at the Washington Navy Yard.

“Our hearts go out to everyone who was affected by this morning’s shooting at the Washington Navy Yard,” he said. “On behalf of the people of Connecticut, we offer our deepest condolences and will keep the victims of this senseless tragedy in our thoughts and prayers.”

U.S. Rep. Joseph Courtney, a Vernon resident, issued the following statement in reaction to the shootings at the Washington Navy Yard:

"I am sickened and heartbroken at the news of another mass shooting, this one just blocks away from the Capitol complex in Washington. The Washington Navy Yard is a historic base where thousands of dedicated patriots - men and women, civilians and uniformed members of our military - work every day to make our country safer and more secure. With our district's close ties to the Navy, I have had the honor of working closely with many who work at the Navy Yard, and tonight my thoughts are with all of the victims and their loved ones.

"The full resources of our law enforcement should be brought to bear to ensure that all guilty parties are brought to justice, and to examine why this horrific event happened. After so many tragic mass shootings in recent years, including Newtown, I hope that we can renew our efforts to understand the causes of these crimes, and take necessary steps to prevent them. The brave men and women of the Navy Yard who experienced tragedy today deserve answers and action."