Metro Atlanta, Nation Reacts to Wisconsin Sikh Temple Shooting

Seven people were killed and at least three others wounded in a .

The incident, which occurred about 12 miles from Milwaukee in Oak Creek, is being treated as domestic terrorism, officials said.

Local police told reporters that the gunman was among the deceased and apparently acted alone. The three injured are in critical condition.

Surinder Singh—a spokesman for a Sikh temple in Norcross, called the Guru Nanak Mission Society of Atlanta—said the congregation

"We're definitely feeling concerned," Singh said. "But it's not about Sikhs, it's not about Hindus, it's not about anything. It's all about a crime against humanity. Being humans, we should be all concerned."

The Sikh Educational Welfare Association Gurudwara Sahib congregation in Roswell is also praying for everyone affected by the Wisconsin shooting, spokesperson Parvinder Singh said.

"Our heart goes out to all those who were shot and the families of those who died," Singh said. "We sincerely hope and pray that those who've suffered have the God-given strength to go on with their lives."

He also praised the first-responding police officer who is credited in early reports with de-escalating the situation.

Sikh members of Oak Creek have expressed shocked. A member of the Wisconsin congregation told :

"This is disgraceful for the community and the whole world. People come here to worship, pray and express their feelings to God. It's sad that this happened here, and I hope those victimized don't lose their faith in God."

Across the nation, many other communities are also responding to the tragedy. In New York, police .

, whose parents are practicing Sikhs, posted this message on her Facebook page:

"It's very sad to see something like this happen to a peaceful place of worship. Our prayers and condolences go out to the families of the innocent victims and the family of the heroic officer in this senseless tragedy."

President Barack Obama issued this statement:

"Michelle and I were deeply saddened to learn of the shooting that tragically took so many lives in Wisconsin. At this difficult time, the people of Oak Creek must know that the American people have them in our thoughts and prayers, and our hearts go out to the families and friends of those who were killed and wounded."

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