Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee said in a video message Monday night that his administration is “working to provide additional mental health resources to students and families” in the wake of the shooting.
“Our state is grieving again,” McKee said. “As governor, a parent and a former coach, my heart breaks for the victims, families and everyone impacted by the devastating shooting at Lynch Arena in Pawtucket.”
He thanked all the first responders and medical workers who assisted with the response to the shooting.
“Too many Rhode Islanders know what it feels like to lose a loved one, a neighbor or a friend to gun violence. And a tragedy like this is incredibly difficult for people of any age to process,” he said, urging those in need of support to call 988.
Pawtucket Mayor Don Grebien in an earlier news conference said the city, state and attorney general’s office have collaborated to set up a 211 hotline to help set up counseling and referral services.
“Anyone impacted by today’s incident should call 211,” Grebien said. “They’ll have trained professionals available to address both physical and emotional needs, and recognizing that healing takes many forms.”
Grebien also said grief counseling would be provided for those who were at the arena during the shooting and their families at the Blackstone Valley Visitor’s Center from noon until 7 p.m. ET Tuesday.
In a later statement, the city said that beginning Wednesday, the center would be open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. “for as long as needed.”
Family Service of Rhode Island, RI Medical Reserve Corps – Trauma Response Team and the American Red Cross will be providing services, the city said.