CARSON CITY—Governor Jim Gibbons issued the following statement regarding yesterday's events at Virginia Tech:

"Dawn and I extend our heartfelt condolences to the students, faculty, and families affected by the senseless acts of violence, and I commend those heroes who selflessly took action to save lives and evacuate victims.

"School violence should not be a reality that we as a nation accept. Instead, these incidents serve as a reminder that we must make every effort to ensure that such events do not occur here in Nevada or at any other school across the nation.

"I extend my support to Governor Tim Kaine and the people of Virginia at this difficult time. By order of President George W. Bush, the United States flag shall be flown at half-staff until sunset, Sunday, April 22, 2007 at all public office buildings, public grounds and military posts. I also encourage all Nevadans to lower their flags to half-staff out of respect for the victims of this tragic event."