AUSTIN – This afternoon, RPT State Chairman Steve Munisteri, on behalf of himself as well as the Republican Party of Texas, issued the following statement on the news of the tragedy in Midland on Thursday afternoon where four veterans were killed and 16 other people were injured after a train hit a parade float carrying these warriors and their loved ones.

"On behalf of the entire RPT and all Republicans in Texas, I would like to extend our deepest condolences to the families of the victims and all of those who were grievously injured and suffering as a result of this terrible event. Today, all Texans are united in mourning for these American heroes who lost their lives so tragically and I urge all Texas Republicans to pray for comfort to their families and for the speedy recovery of those who were injured."