By AP
LANSING, MI – Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder has expressed "condolences and deepest sympathies" to the families of the people killed in a shooting spree in Grand Rapids.
Police in the western Michigan city say 34-year-old Rodrick Shonte Dantzler shot and killed seven people at two homes, wounded two other people while fleeing, took three hostages and then killed himself Thursday.
Snyder issued a statement early Friday calling the shooting spree "a senseless, tragic wave of violence."
The governor says he also commends the "brave men and women" of the police and other emergency agencies who worked to save lives in an effort to "protect citizens and bring an end to this tragedy."
He says the state is committed to helping the victims, their families and community make it through the difficult experience.