Romney calls Trayvon Martin shooting a 'tragedy'

By Kasie Hunt

Associated Press

Published: Friday, March 23 2012 10:15 a.m. MDT

Republican presidential candidate, former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney greets supporters during a campaign stop in Metairie, La., Friday, March 23, 2012.

Steven Senne, Associated Press

Enlarge photo»

Summary

Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney says there should be a "thorough investigation" into the shooting death of an unarmed, black Florida teenager that has rallied civil rights activists.

NEW ORLEANS — Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney says there should be a "thorough investigation" into the shooting death of an unarmed, black Florida teenager that has rallied civil rights activists.

Romney issued a written statement Friday calling 17-year-old Trayvon Martin's death "a tragedy." He said an investigation would reassure the public that, in his words, "justice is carried out with impartiality and integrity."

Romney's statement followed President Barack Obama call during a White House appearance Friday for an investigation into the killing. Obama said his message was for Martin's parents and added that if he had a son, the boy would look like Martin.

Romney was campaigning in Louisiana for the state's presidential primary Saturday.

Comments