MPAA, Cinemark theater chain respond to ‘Dark Knight Rises’ shooting

The Motion Picture Assn. of America, the trade group that represents Hollywood’s major studios, and the Cinemark movie theater chain have responded to the shooting at a midnight screening of “The Dark Knight Rises.�

Former U.S. Senator Chris Dodd, chief executive of the MPAA, issued the following statement:

“We share the shock and sadness of everyone in the motion picture community at the news of this terrible event. We extend our prayers and deepest sympathies to the victims, their loved ones and all those affected by this tragedy.�

PHOTOS: Colorado theater shooting

The MPAA’s members include Warner Bros., the studio behind “The Dark Knight Rises.�

Cinemark USA Chief Executive Timothy Warner gave a brief statement to television reporters. Dallas-based Cinemark owns the Century 16 multiplex in Aurora, Colo., where the shooting took place.

“Cinemark’s thoughts and prayers and focus are on the family, victims, and employees in Aurora, Colo.,� he said, according to CNN.

“We’re also very grateful for the quick response of the police department and emergency response team, which has undoubtedly saved a lot of lives by their quick response. At this time we really don’t have a lot more facts or information than is out there in the public press. As we get more information we promise you additional press statements, but right now we’re focused in our concerns on the victims, their families and employees.�

Cinemark is the nation’s third-largest chain with 298 theatres and 3,895 screens in 39 states.
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