President Biden said in a statement Thursday that he was “horrified” by the recent stabbing in Rockford, Illinois.
“[First lady Jill Biden] And last night, I was appalled to learn of the brutal attack in Rockford that claimed the lives of four people, including a 15-year-old boy.” stated in a statement. “Seven other people suffered tragic injuries as a result of this senseless violence. We pray for the families of those who lost loved ones and wish all those injured a speedy recovery. I am.”
“I also appreciate the heroic actions of local law enforcement who confronted the suspect and prevented the loss of more innocent lives,” Biden said in a statement.
Authorities announced Thursday that Christian Soto, 22, was charged with four counts of first-degree murder in Wednesday’s stabbing rampage that left four people dead, according to the Associated Press. Soto is also charged with seven counts of attempted murder and burglary with a dangerous weapon.
“Federal law enforcement provided all assistance to local law enforcement as they investigated this heinous act,” Biden said in a statement Thursday.
Biden also said his administration is “doing everything we can to help the people of Rockford and the broader community recover from this traumatic event.”
“Families across America want the same thing: the freedom to feel safe in their communities,” Biden said. “That is my priority and why we have made significant investments to provide our communities with resources and law enforcement officers to prevent and fight crime. This tragic event… It is a reminder that we must ensure our police and first responders have the support they need to do their jobs and keep us safe.”
Congressman Eric Sorensen (D-Ill.), whose district includes Rockford, Said in a post by X on Wednesday“We are grateful for the quick actions of the police that allowed us to arrest the suspect and prevent further harm to our Rockford neighbors,” he said on the platform formerly known as Twitter.
“I want the victims and their families to know that I am thinking of them and praying for those who are recovering,” Sorensen continued in the post.
The Associated Press contributed.
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