After Maryland Shooting, Trump Vows to ‘Reduce Violent Crime and to Protect Innocent Life’

President Donald Trump honored the five victims killed in a shooting at the office of a local newspaper in Maryland on Thursday.

“I’d like to address the horrific shooting that took place yesterday at Capital Gazette newsroom in Annapolis, Maryland,” Trump said Friday during a White House event. “This attack shocked the conscience of our nation and filled our hearts with grief.”

“Journalists, like all Americans, should be free from the fear of being violently attacked while doing their job,” the president, who often clashes with the media, said. “To the families of the victims, there are no words to express our sorrow for your loss. Horrible, horrible loss. Horrible, horrible thing happened.”

Trump talked about his agenda to fight violent crime.

“In your suffering, we pledge our eternal support. The suffering is so great. I’ve seen some of the people. So great,” Trump said. “My government will not rest until we have done everything in our power to reduce violent crime and to protect innocent life. We will not ever leave your side. So, our warmest and best wishes, and regrets. A horrific, horrible thing.”