Comment from Missouri’s Fifth District Congressman Emanuel Cleaver, II, following the explosion at JJ’s

“My heart and prayers go out at this tragic time in Kansas City. The heavy burden of the loss of this historic family legacy has taken a human toll and I know our city will do what it always does – pull together in times of grief and challenge. I would also like to express my deep respect and appreciation for the first responders, who brought their consistent professionalism and bravery to the scene within moments to prevent further death, injury, and destruction.”

Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Blue Springs, Grain Valley, Oak Grove, North Kansas City, Gladstone, Claycomo, and all of Ray, Lafayette, and Saline Counties. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and also serves as a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus.