Nation's Leaders Horrified By Shootings

WASHINGTON -- President George W. Bush, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi all expressed sadness and offered prayers Monday for the victims in the Virginia Tech shooting massacre.

"Our nation is shocked and saddened by the news of the shootings at Virginia Tech today. The exact total has not yet been confirmed, but it appears that more than 30 people were killed and many more were wounded," Bush said.

"Schools should be places of safety and sanctuary and learning. When that sanctuary is violated, the impact is felt in every American classroom and every American community.

"Today, our nation grieves with those who have lost loved ones at Virginia Tech. We hold the victims in our hearts, we lift them up in our prayers, and we ask a loving God to comfort those who are suffering today," Bush said.

In a statement from the floor of the Senate, Reid said, "The thoughts and prayers of all Americans are with the Virginia Tech family today. As we learn more about this horrific tragedy -- the deadliest shooting in our nation's history -- it breaks our hearts and shakes us to our very cores. We pray for those who were lost and for the speedy recovery of the wounded. And we pray that America can find the strength to overcome our grief and outrage as we face this tragedy together."

In the House, which returned Monday from a two-week recess, Pelosi, d-cALIF., interrupted the proceedings to lead a moment of silence in remembrance.

"It is with great sadness that I rise to acknowledge that today our country has been struck by a terrible, terrible tragedy," Pelosi said.

"The death toll at Virginia Tech now is over 30. This is the worst campus shooting in the history of our country.

"As the Virginia Tech community struggles with the mourning and questioning that is certain to follow, the continued prayers from this Congress are with the students, their families, the faculty, and the staff at Virginia Tech.

"Leader Boehner joins me in extending our condolences to all concerned, and we ask for a moment of silence to be observed in this body."