[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 57 (Wednesday, March 29, 2023)]
[House]
[Page H1539]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    UNSPEAKABLE TRAGEDY IN NASHVILLE

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from 
Tennessee (Mr. Ogles) for 5 minutes.
  Mr. OGLES. Madam Speaker, I rise to remember those lost in an 
unspeakable tragedy that took place in Nashville at the Covenant 
School, which is in my district, and to acknowledge the power of 
prayer.
  At approximately 10:13 a.m., evil ran rampant in the halls of the 
Christian academy and claimed the lives of three children and three 
staff members:
  Hallie Scruggs, age 9;
  Evelyn Dieckhaus, age 9;
  William Kinney, age 9;
  Mike Hill, the school custodian;
  Dr. Katherine Koonce, the head of the school; and
  Cynthia Peak, a substitute teacher.
  These innocent lives were lost in a senseless act of violence.
  As a father of three children, I cannot begin to imagine what the 
families of these six individuals are experiencing right now.
  To my fellow Tennesseans in Nashville and the Covenant School, we are 
here for you. We are sending our deepest and most sincere condolences. 
My prayers are with each and every one of you.
  I also want to recognize the bravery demonstrated by the Metropolitan 
Nashville Police Department and to all of the first responders who took 
exemplary steps during this tragic event.
  To Officers Rex Engelbert and Michael Collazo, thank you. Your 
incredible bravery, valor, and courage in the face of danger saved 
lives.
  Our community is broken. To those who are wondering and trying to 
make sense of the world, the Lord says: ``So do not fear, for I am with 
you; do not be dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you and 
help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.'' Isaiah 
41:10.
  Please join me for a moment of silence.

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