Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel.
On September 16, 2013 Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel released an official statement in connection with the tragic shooting at the Washington Navy Yard.
“I have been receiving regular updates on the shooting at the Washington Navy Yard, and continue to monitor the situation closely. This is a tragic day for the Department of Defense, the national capital area, and the nation. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims of this outrageous act of violence, their families, and all those affected by today’s events. I am grateful for the swift response of federal and local law enforcement, and for the professionalism of DoD personnel at the Navy Yard complex. The Department of Defense will continue to offer its full assistance in the investigation of this terrible and senseless violence.” (source: Pentagon Press Release statement http://www.defense.gov/releases/release.aspx?releaseid=16263).
Meanwhile the FBI is continuing to investigate the case. It also released a statement asking specifically for the the public’s help and assistance with any information concerning the shooter in this case Aaron Alexis:
“The FBI is currently seeking information from the public on an individual by the name of Aaron Alexis, now deceased, believed to be responsible for the Washington Navy Yard shootings that occurred this morning at 8:20 in the southeast area of Washington, D.C. Alexis’ place of birth is Queens, New York, and his last known residence was Ft. Worth, Texas. If anyone has any information regarding Alexis, please contact your local field office or nearest American Embassy or call 1-800-CALL-FBI.” (Source: FBI http://www.fbi.gov/news/news_blog/fbi-seeks-information-on-september-16-2013-navy-yard-shootings).