Sen. Richard Blumenthal has responded to the mass shooting in Maine, calling the incident gut-wrenching and heartbreaking.

Officials say the Lewiston, Maine, shooting killed at least 18 people.

Blumenthal said in a statement, "Horror and shock mark another gun violence tragedy – as our hearts go out to victims and families. The Lewiston mass shooting is gut wrenching and heartbreaking – almost incomprehensible in its magnitude. I hope for swift and safe apprehension of the shooter, and thank first responders for their heroic action."

Gov. Ned Lamont has also directed all U.S. and state flags in Connecticut to fly at half-staff until Monday night.