New statement from Live Nation, the company that hosted the country music festival in Las Vegas...
Live Nation, the promoter behind the Route 91 Harvest Festival in Las Vegas that has put on the event for the past four years, issued a heartfelt statement following the tragic shooting that left at least 58 dead and more than 500 injured after a gunman opened fire during Jason Aldean's set in the closing night of the festival Sunday (Oct. 1).
"To think that anyone would want to inflict harm on a gathering of music lovers is beyond our comprehension," the statement reads. "And while we are stunned and grieving over this incomprehensible act of violence, we know that this is a moment when we must come together to prevent more tragedies like this from occurring."
The company also promised that it will do everything in its power to support the victims and their families, thanking the heroic first responders who helped people to medical care and to safety amidst the horrifying scene. Take a look at the full statement below:
Prior to the extended statement, Live Nation issued an initial message of support to those affected by the tragedy: "Our hearts are with you Las Vegas. Thoughts and prayers to all those affected, their families and loved ones." President/CEO Michael Rapino also tweeted a statement this morning, saying, "Our hearts are with the victims in Las Vegas, their families and loved ones who are grieving this morning and to our @LiveNation employees."
As of press time, police had confirmed that at least 58 people had been killed and more than 500 were in hospital rooms receiving care, surpassing last year's Pulse night club shooting death toll of 49 and making this incident the worst mass shooting in U.S. history. The gunman -- who was reportedly a "lone wolf" in the massacre -- has been identified as 64-year-old Mesquite, Nevada, native Stephen Paddock, who killed himself before authorities reached his hotel room in Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino.
