Trump blames Baton Rouge shooting on ‘lack of leadership’

by TheHill.com - 07/17/16 1:46 PM ET

Donald Trump condemned on Sunday the shooting deaths of three Baton Rouge police officers, blaming it on a “lack of leadership in our country.”

“We grieve for the officers killed in Baton Rouge today,” Trump, the presumptive GOP presidential nominee, wrote on his Facebook page.

“How many law enforcement and people have to die because of a lack of leadership in our country? We demand law and order.”

{mosads}At least three police officers died and another three were wounded after a shooting in Baton Rouge, La., on Sunday morning.

The shooting happened just before 9 a.m., less than one mile from police headquarters, amid spiraling tensions across the city between police and the black community.

It follows the officer-involved shooting death of Alton Sterling in Baton Rouge earlier this month, which has spurred protests across the country.

Trump’s running mate Indiana Gov. Mike Pence also made a call for leadership in light of the attacks.

“Attacks on the men and women of law enforcement are attacks on the foundation of a free and safe society. Our prayers are with the victims, the people of Baton Rouge, and those across America who protect and serve. Our country needs leadership.

“Our police need support. We can and must stop this. It is time to renew America’s commitment to law and order to make all of our people safe once more.”