Washington, DC—Below is a statement by U.S. Conference of Mayors President Columbia (SC) Mayor Steve Benjamin on the shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh:

“The horrific, anti-Semitic attack on worshippers at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh on Saturday breaks our hearts. The Anti- Defamation League believes this to be the deadliest attack on the Jewish community in U.S. history and the fact that the attack occurred on the Jewish Sabbath makes it even more painful.

“America’s mayors mourn the dead and express their condolences to the victims, their families, and their community.  Once again we recognize the bravery and quick action of the police and other first responders. We stand with Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto as he works to comfort the victims and heal his City.

“Our nation has seen a rise in hate crimes and anti-Semitic incidents in recent years.  As mayors we speak out against hate crimes wherever and whenever they occur – in our nation and in our own cities – and try to find ways to build understanding, compassionate and inclusive communities that bring people together.”