Shortly after the deadly shooting at an Aurora, Colorado, midnight showing of "The Dark Knight Rises" on Friday (July 20) morning, Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney issued a statement about the tragedy.
"Ann and I are deeply saddened by the news of the senseless violence that took the lives of 15 people in Colorado and injured dozens more. We are praying for the families and loved ones of the victims during this time of deep shock and immense grief. We expect that the person responsible for this terrible crime will be quickly brought to justice."
Despite the number cited in the statement, which comes from earlier reports, the current death toll for the massacre stands at 12, not 15.
The shooting occurred roughly half an hour into the late-night showing, when the gunman, now identified as 24-year-old James Holmes, threw a tear gas canister and proceeded to open fire. Holmes wore a bulletproof vest and a gas mask.
Police reportedly found Holmes next to his car after the shooting and took him into custody without any further incident.
Click here for photos from the scene in Aurora, Colorado.
President Obama also issued a statement shortly after being informed of the incident.
"Michelle and I are shocked and saddened by the horrific and tragic shooting in Colorado," the statement read. "We are committed to bringing whoever was responsible to justice, ensuring the safety of our people, and caring for those who have been wounded. As we do when confronted by moments of darkness and challenge, we must now come together as one American family."
Obama has since made a public statement during what was scheduled to be a rally in Fort Myers, Florida.
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