Homeland Security secretary calls shooting 'callous act of violence'
Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas said the department is "horrified by this callous act of violence," in a statement Wednesday.
Mayorkas said one Border Patrol agent was injured in the crossfire.
"We are grateful for the courageous members of our Border Patrol, many of whom are part of the Uvalde and surrounding communities, who immediately responded to the scene along with local and state law enforcement," Mayorkas said.
He added, "Without hesitation, they put themselves between the shooter and students to end the bloodshed and administer medical aid. Without question, their heroism yesterday saved lives."
The department will continue to coordinate with local, state and federal partners, Mayorkas said.
"As we pray for the families and loved ones and recognize the bravery of frontline law enforcement personnel, we must redouble our collective efforts to make our communities safer," Mayorkas said.