Governor: A terrible crime harmed the people of this community

The following news release was just issued by Governor Matt Blunt's office:

Gov. Matt Blunt today traveled to Neosho to meet with local and state law enforcement officials following yesterday’s fatal shooting at the First Congregational Church.
“Yesterday, a terrible crime harmed the people of this community, our state,
and our shared American values by attacking Missourians in a peaceful place of
faith and worship,” Blunt said. “My thoughts and prayers are with all who mourn
the loss of the victims and the citizens of Neosho as they begin the healing
process following yesterday’s tragic events. I commend the Neosho Police
Department, the Newton County Sheriff’s Department and the Missouri State
Highway Patrol. We are all very proud of your professional, rapid and
courageous response.”
Gov. Blunt was joined by Missouri Public Safety Director Mark James,
Missouri State Highway Patrol superintendent Colonel James Keathley, Neosho
Sheriff Ken Copeland, Neosho Police Chief David McCracken and Neosho Mayor
Howard Birdsong.
The governor and law enforcement officials provided an update on the actions
taken following the deadly shooting. Gov. Blunt has directed state law
enforcement officials to provide whatever assistance is asked of them by local
law enforcement and the city of Neosho.