Gov. John Bel Edwards issued the following statement in response to last night’s violence in Lafayette and Las Vegas.

“My heart is heavy this morning as we all woke up to terrible news both here in Louisiana and in Las Vegas, Nevada. Last night, a Lafayette police officer was fatally shot while on duty. Words are never enough to show gratitude to those who pay the ultimate price while carrying out their oath to protect and serve. We are forever grateful for this officer’s service to our community. Louisianans have experienced the heartbreak of horrific, calculated violence in recent years and our hearts go out to those who lost loved ones and those who sustained injuries during last night’s attack in Nevada. In the wake of evil and hardship, communities across our country come together and demonstrate the inherent goodness in people. Donna and I continue to pray for the family of the slain officer here in Louisiana and for the people of Las Vegas and offer our assistance to help in any way we can.”

Edwards will issue an executive order lowering the Louisiana and American flags over all state public buildings effective today, Oct. 2, through Oct. 6.

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