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Area & State Media React To Virginia Shooting

npr.org

Area media organizations and Governor Cuomo are reacting to today's incident in Virginia where a TV news crew, the reporter and videographer, were killed during a live broadcast.

The Rochester Media Association issued this statement:

"The board of the Rochester Media Association sends its condolences to the families of Alison Parker, Aaron Ward, the employees at WDBJ-TV, along with the entire media family in the Roanoke market. While, at this time, we do not know all the circumstances surrounding the incident, it highlights that all members of the media put their safety at risk when covering events to inform the public. We also ask that you keep victim Vicki Gardner in your thoughts. Today, staffs from across all media outlets are coming together as one.  We are all lucky to live in a country where freedom of the press is a right, but we do know safety is not guaranteed."

This statement from the NYS AP Association, which represents print and broadcast outlets around the state:

"The New York State Associated Press Association mourns the killing today of WDBJ journalists Alison Parker and Adam Ward. Parker and Ward were in the middle of a live broadcast when they were attacked without warning. The woman they were interviewing was also injured. The NYSAPA also wishes to express our sympathy to the family, friends and co-workers of Parker and Ward."

And Governor Andrew Cuomo released this statement:

My heart goes out to all those impacted by the shooting that took place this morning near Moneta, Virginia. Like all of you, I am shocked and saddened by the senseless murder of two members of the media who were doing nothing more than their jobs.

This morning's tragedy is the latest in seemingly endless, painful reminders that we must confront the rampant gun violence in our communities.

On behalf of all New Yorkers, my thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and co-workers of those who died. They will be remembered.”

The Gates Police Chief, James VanBrederode sent an email to area media which read:

"The Gates Police are thinking of all of you in the media after this insane shooting this morning in Virginia.  When will the madness stop? Be careful out there!"

Randy Gorbman is WXXI's director of news and public affairs. Randy manages the day-to-day operations of WXXI News on radio, television, and online.