Statement on Adam Laing Ward, WDBJ7 employee and 2011 alumnus

We have learned that Adam Laing Ward, a 2011 Virginia Tech alumnus, was shot and killed during a live broadcast this morning along with reporter Alison Parker. Adam had a bachelor's degree in communication. We extend our deepest sympathies to their families.

It is shocking and deeply saddening for this community to be again struck by gun violence. We deplore this senseless violence, now seemingly commonplace in our society.

Robert Denton, professor and chair of the Department of Communication, knew Adam, taught him in classes, and since Denton was a guest broadcaster at WDBJ and worked with Adam at the station, he offers this remembrance:

“Adam was a delightful person. He worked hard – you could tell he loved what he was doing. He wasn’t afraid to pitch in and do whatever was necessary for the broadcast. He did whatever was needed with a smile and with grace. He was simply a very nice young man and very professional.”

And Alison was such a sweet and hardworking young newscaster. I have worked with both of them for nearly three years in the field and studio.  Very delightful people and I loved mentoring and being with them.  I just find this violence hard to fathom.”  – Robert Denton.

Statement attributable to Larry Hincker, associate vice president for university relations.