Governor Corbett orders state flags lowered to honor Newtown victims

(Harrisburg) -- Governor Corbett has ordered all Pennsylvania flags across the state lowered to half-staff immediately in honor of the Connecticut school shooting victims and their families.

The governor also issued a statement on the tragedy:

“My wife, Susan, and I want to offer our condolences to the families and friends of the victims of today’s tragic shooting in Connecticut. As parents, we can imagine nothing more horrific than such a violent, senseless act committed against innocent children.

“On behalf of all Pennsylvanians, we want the families of all these victims to know they are in our thoughts and prayers and we share in their grief.’’

Flags shall remain at half-staff until sundown on Tuesday.

Pennsylvania Democratic U.S. Senator Bob Casey also has issued a statement in the wake of the shootings:

“I am deeply saddened by the senseless tragedy in Connecticut today. My thoughts and prayers are with the families and the entire Newtown community.”