Local, state and federal officials are responding to the mass shooting early Sunday near the Illinois Wesleyan University campus.
One person was killed and seven others were injured, including two IWU students and one Illinois State University student.
The shooting near Division and East streets occurred in Bloomington’s Ward 7, where Mollie Ward is the city council member.
“I don't really have words at this point to describe how sad and frightening this is for that block. I can only imagine what they're going through at this point,” Ward told WGLT. “I'm very angry that this continues again to be an issue in our community as a whole, but also Ward 7.”
Ward, who said addressing gun violence was one of the main reasons she sought to join the city council and has experienced gun violence near her home and multiple times on the block where she lives, added the shooting reinforces the need for the community to take gun violence seriously.
“I think a lot of people get the get the attitude that, ‘Oh this wouldn't happen here.’ It happened here.”
Ward noted the city’s Commission for Safe Communities, which is due to release its first annual report in a few weeks. That report is expected to include recommendations that she hopes will help the community take a more proactive approach to addressing gun violence.
“We can’t just place it on police,” Ward said.
In a statement, Bloomington Mayor Dan Brady said the city "extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the individual who lost their life in this morning's shooting. Our thoughts are also with those who were injured and everyone affected by this tragic incident."
"We are grateful for the quick response of Bloomington Police, Fire and emergency personnel who worked to provide lifesaving care and protect those at the scene," Brady said. "We understand the concern an incident like this creates throughout our community. The Bloomington Police Department is actively investigating, and additional information will be shared as it becomes available. Our focus remains on supporting those affected, assisting the ongoing investigation and keeping our community informed."
State and federal officials
U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen, a Democrat whose district includes parts of Bloomington, also issued a statement.
"My thoughts are with the people of Bloomington, where eight people were senselessly shot last night. We must be able to turn thoughts into action, by settling our disagreements without shooting guns at people," Sorensen posted on Facebook.
U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood, a Republican whose district also includes parts of Bloomington, said he was "grateful to the first responders and law enforcement officers who responded quickly to help those in need and secure the area."
"I am heartbroken by the shooting near Illinois Wesleyan University’s campus last night. Kristen and I are praying for the victims, their loved ones, and their families during this unimaginably difficult time," LaHood said on Facebook.
State Rep. Sharon Chung, a Bloomington Democrat, said she was "deeply troubled by the acts of violence" near IWU's campus.
"My heart aches for the person who lost their life ... and my thoughts are with their family," Chung said on Facebook.
