Rep. Sam McKenzie statement on Austin East school shooting

The following is a statement from Knoxville State Representative Sam McKenzie (D-District 15) on the school shooting at Austin East High School this afternoon.  District 15 is where Austin East is located and Rep. McKenzie is a graduate of the school:

“I am at a loss to describe my sadness as yet another horrific act of gun violence has happened in my community.  Austin-East High School is my alma mater and my heart goes out to the students, faculty and staff that were present for the senseless shooting today. I do not have the necessary words to convey my thoughts about the spiraling violent acts conducted by members of my community on members of my community.  I am asking everyone that knows and loves East Knoxville to pray and contemplate the lives we have lost.  I am also asking that we reclaim the sanctity of our beloved neighborhood!  This is the fourth unnecessary shooting involving the Austin East community this year and we must make sure we take every step and make every effort to prevent these tragedies from continuing to occur.”