U.S. Rep. Tom Rooney, who represents south Sarasota County, was at the baseball practice this morning in Alexandria where U.S. Rep. Steve Scalise and four others were reportedly shot, but left shortly before the shooting took place, according to aides in Rooney's office. He left the pratcice minutes before the events at the field transpired.
National media outlets report that in addition to Scalise, two aides and two security officers were also shot.
The practice was taking place in advance of an upcoming charity baseball game between Congressional Republicans and Democrats. The shooting occurred at the Republican practice. Scalise is the House majority whip for Republicans.
U.S. Rep Vern Buchanan, who represents north Sarasota and Manatee, is not a part of the baseball team and was not at the practice.
All votes have been cancelled in the House today.
