“We are all shocked and saddened by the murder of Dr. George Tiller. Throughout his long career, Dr. Tiller stood for one thing - - the health and safety of the patients he served.

For almost two decades, Dr. Tiller was repeatedly targeted by anti-abortion extremists, including having his clinic bombed and being shot. However, despite these incidents, he continued to practice because he believed that women had the right to make their own reproductive health decisions.

Our prayers go out to his family, colleagues and friends. We call on law enforcement to act swiftly to ensure that the person or persons responsible for this senseless act of violence is prosecuted.”