'We grieve with them' — Mayor issues statement on fatal shootings

Mayor Matthew Shoemaker issued a statement this morning following news that a shooter took the lives of an adult victim and three children last night before turning the gun on themselves in a situation that police are describing as intimate partner violence.

The full text of the mayor's statement follows:

Sault Ste. Marie Mayor Matthew Shoemaker expresses his sympathies through the statement below regarding investigations announced by the Sault Ste. Marie Police Services this morning:

“There are no words to adequately address such a tremendous loss. This is an unspeakable tragedy and on behalf of the City of Sault Ste. Marie, I extend our community’s collective condolences and support to the family and loved ones of the victims. Together, as a community, we stand with them and with our brave first responders. We grieve with them as we try to reckon with this inconceivable act of violence. Sault Ste. Marie is a strong and caring community, and I encourage people to look out for one another and offer support during this incredibly challenging time.

I have been in, and remain in, close contact with Police Chief Stevenson since early this morning. I recognize the tremendously challenging nature of the important work of Sault Police Services, and I’ve expressed my support to the Chief and his team.”