10 killed in Buffalo shooting at Tops supermarket ‘in despicable act of violence’

BUFFALO – Ten people were shot and killed by an 18-year-old male today at a Tops supermarket on Jefferson Avenue in Buffalo.

The shooter also injured three other people, including two critically. The suspect was arrested at the scene.

Police say the shooter, a White teen, targeted the store that serves a Black community. Of the 13 people shot, Channel 2 in Buffalo said 11 were Black and two were White. Four of the victims were store employees.

Governor Kathy Hochul tweeted this statement: “I’m on my way to Buffalo to assist with the response to today’s shooting.

“My heart breaks for the victims’ families and for everyone impacted by this horrific and despicable act of violence.”

Tops Markets issued this statement: “We are shocked and deeply saddened by this senseless act of violence and our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. Our top priority remains the health and well-being of our associates and customers. We appreciate the quick response of local law enforcement and are providing all available resources to assist authorities in the ongoing investigation.”

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer, D-NY, tweeted this response: “I ache for the victims and their families. I ache for Buffalo. I ache for the tight-knit East Side community. Racism has no place in our state or our country.

“I’ve spoken with the Mayor of Buffalo and offered any help we can provide. We stand with the people of Buffalo.”

U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-NY, issued this statement: “My prayers are with the victims of this racially motivated act of violence and my heart goes out to the victims’ loved ones, our emergency personnel and the entire Buffalo community. Racism, prejudice and hatred have no place in our state or our country. I pledge to the people of New York that I will continue to fight my hardest to pass commonsense gun safety measures and to confront and defeat the scourge of white supremacy.”

State Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt issued this statement: “The tragic shooting that occurred in a Buffalo supermarket Saturday afternoon is heartbreaking for our community and people all across the state and country. My wife and I are praying for the victims and their families.

“I want to thank the Buffalo Police Department and Emergency Medical Services for quick action in detaining the suspect and aiding the injured. New Yorkers stand together in condemning this despicable violence.”