Dem. Party Chairman Killed
Bill Gwatney, chairman of the Arkansas Democratic Party, was fatally shot this morning at party headquarters in downtown Little Rock. Gwatney died of his injuries in a Little Rock hospital this afternoon.
The shooter was pursued by police from numerous agencies to the Sheridan city limits, where he was shot and killed by Arkansas State Police troopers. Though the shooter's identity has not been released, he is described as a 51 year-old male.
District 30 Sen. Gilbert Baker (R-Conway), chairman of the Arkansas Republican Party, said he was shocked, saddened and disappointed at the news.
"It's unbelievably shocking," Baker said. "I'm just praying for the Gwatney family. It's just beyond belief; a horribly sad, sad state of affairs."
Senate candidate Joe White (D-Conway) was devastated to hear news of the shooting and rumors that Gwatney had died.
Bill and Hillary Clinton issued the following joint statement this afternoon:
"We are deeply saddened by the news that Bill Gwatney has passed away. His leadership and commitment to Arkansas and this country have always inspired us and those who had the opportunity to know him. Our prayers are with his family during this time."
"I'm devastated; I can hardly talk," White said. "He was a long-time friend of mine, a caring, compassionate individual with strong convictions who worked hard every day.
"It's just senseless, senseless. He meant a lot to me and I talked to him and visited with him as late as Thursday. He was a visionary, always looking forward; a great guy. I can't say enough about him. He was a dear friend."
Gwatney finished a ten-year stint in the state senate in 2002. He was appointed chairman of the state Democratic Party by Gov. Mike Beebe after serving as finance chairman for Beebe's successful election campaign.
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