For Immediate Release

Gunman kills 13 in Binghamton

Apr 3, 2009 5:55 PM

A gunman opened fire and killed 13 people at an immigration services center in the American Civic Association building in downtown Binghamton, NY, on Friday, April 3. The 42-year-old gunman, whom authorities later found dead of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, had barricaded the rear door of the building with his car before entering through the front door and firing his weapon at the center where citizenship classes were scheduled. Authorities said the gunman was from nearby Johnson City, NY, and they were trying to determine what his motive might have been.

AFT President Randi Weingarten and NYSUT President Richard Iannuzzi issued the following joint statement in response:

We are deeply saddened by today's tragic shooting in Binghamton. Once again, a peaceful community is confronted with random and senseless violence. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone in New York's Southern Tier, especially the victims and their families.

Members of the AFT and NYSUT stand ready to provide support to the city of Binghamton, its university and community colleges, and its schools from skilled social workers, psychologists, guidance counselors, nurses and other public employees. At a time like this, we need to stand together as a family would for all those whose lives have been disrupted by this tragic day.