Rep. Evans 'Shocked And Saddened' By Wednesday Shooting

Congressman Dwight Evans issued a joint statement with Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick Wednesday addressing the shooting in Alexandria, Virginia that injured House Majority Whip Steve Scalise and four others.

"We are shocked & saddened by this morning's senseless act of violence against our congressional colleagues, staffers and Capitol Police," Evans and Fitzpatrick's statement read. "At times like this, Americans must know that regardless of party affiliation or political ideology, we stand united in love of country and commitment to service."

Evans, a Democrat, represents Pennsylvania's 2nd Congressional District, which includes Northwest, West, North, parts of South and Center City Philadelphia, and the western suburbs of Narberth and Lower Merion Township. Fitzpatrick, a Republican, represents the 8th Congressional District which covers Bucks County and parts of Montgomery County.

"We are thankful that tomorrow’s Congressional Baseball Game will be played despite today’s events and believe it can serve as a spotlight on this unity," the pair said in the statement. "We are urging our colleagues to join us in attending and sitting with a member from the other side of the aisle. Likewise, we encourage the president to attend."

Evans and Fitzpatrick said doing so will show a message of unity despite differences.

Alexandria Police Chief Michael Brown said that the five people were taken to area hospitals for treatment. Only the identity of Scalise has been made public.

The shooter was in police custody, and has been identified as James T. Hodgkinson of Belleville, Illinois, by multiple media outlets.

Scalise of Louisiana, a member of Team GOP and the No. 3 ranking Republican in the House, was taken by helicopter from the scene. The congressman, who was shot in the hip, was undergoing surgery at MedStar Washington Hospital Center, according to a statement from his office.

"Prior to entering surgery, the Whip was in good spirits and spoke to his wife by phone. He is grateful for the brave actions of U.S. Capitol Police, first responders, and colleagues," the statement said.

Scalise, a second baseman for the team, and members of his protective detail were shot by a suspect described by witnesses as a white man in his 50s. Click here for full coverage of the shooting in Alexandria.

With reporting by Elizabeth Janney.

Pictured, police and emergency personnel are seen near the scene where House Majority Whip Steve Scalise of Louisiana was shot during a Congressional baseball practice in Alexandria on Wednesday, June 14. (APPhoto/Cliff Owen)