Donald Trump Responds to 'Very Sick' Waukesha Parade Incident

Former president Donald Trump has released a statement in response to the deadly vehicle incident at a Christmas parade in Waukesha, Wisconsin, that killed several people.

"The whole world is watching the tragedy which just took place in Waukesha, Wisconsin, it is devastating, horrible, and very very sick!" Trump said in a statement released early Monday.

"My heart goes out to the people of this great, beautiful and hardworking community. We must find the answers to this terrible crime, and stop these violent and depraved acts from happening again. I am with you Waukesha, and always will be!"

An SUV sped through barricades and plowed into people at the holiday parade at around 4:40 p.m. on Sunday.

At least five people have died and more than 40 others were injured, the city of Waukesha said in a post on Facebook. "However, these numbers may change as we collect additional information," the post added.

The Milwaukee Dancing Grannies confirmed on its Facebook page early on Monday that some of its members were among the dead.

"Our group was doing what they loved, performing in front of crowds in a parade putting smiles on faces of all ages, filling them with joy and happiness," the post said. "Those who died were extremely passionate Grannies. Their eyes gleamed ... joy of being a Grannie. They were the glue ... held us together."

At a news conference Sunday night, Waukesha Police Chief Dan Thompson said the SUV involved in the incident had been located and a "person of interest" was in custody. He said there was no further threat to the community, but gave no details about the person or a possible motive.

But NBC News, citing five law enforcement officials, identified the person in custody on Monday as Darrell Brooks, 39. Brooks has not been charged with any crime in connection with Sunday's incident and police have not identified him as a suspect.

Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul confirmed that a major investigation into the incident is underway with the assistance of the Wisconsin Department of Justice. "What took place in Waukesha today is sickening, and I have every confidence that those responsible will be brought to justice," he tweeted.

President Joe Biden was briefed about the incident on Sunday night, White House press secretary Jen Psaki said on Twitter.

"Our team is in close touch with local officials to offer any support and assistance needed," she wrote. "Our hearts are with the families and the entire community."