NASHVILLE – Governor Phil Bredesen today declared Friday, April 20, 2007, a statewide Day of Mourning for victims of the Virginia Tech shootings, joining Tennessee with other states expressing sorrow and support for the families and friends of those who were killed and injured.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the Virginia Tech community and the loved ones of the victims in this national tragedy," Bredesen said.  "Not one of us is untouched by this unthinkable event, and Tennesseans join the nation in prayerful support for our neighboring state and the friends and families who are coping with the loss."

Governor Bredesen has ordered that the State Carillon toll at Noon on April 20th in observance of the tragedy and he is requesting that bells ring simultaneously at government buildings, churches and wherever appropriate so Tennesseans can join together in observing a moment of silence for the victims.   

Virginia Governor Timothy Kaine declared Friday a statewide Day of Mourning in Virginia and sent a letter to other governors asking them to join the effort.

"As this tragedy impacts not just Virginia, I encourage you to consider standing with Virginia," Governor Kaine wrote in an April 18 letter to other governors.

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