In his remarks, Walz extended heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families, acknowledging the unimaginable grief they are enduring. He praised the courage and professionalism of first responders, law enforcement officers, and medical teams who acted quickly to save lives and restore order. Their bravery, he said, reflects the strength and resilience of Minnesota communities, even in the face of profound sorrow.

The governor also highlighted the importance of national unity during such painful times. He thanked President Trump for reaching out with words of support, underscoring that tragedies of this nature transcend politics. Walz urged Americans to stand together, stressing that unity, compassion, and shared responsibility are critical in helping communities recover from senseless acts of violence.

Looking ahead, Walz called for meaningful action to prevent similar tragedies from happening in the future. He urged policymakers at every level to work collaboratively on solutions that strengthen school safety, address gun violence, and expand mental health support. “Our children deserve to feel safe in their classrooms,” Walz said, reaffirming his commitment to protecting Minnesota’s youth and advocating for national reforms that prioritize security and peace.