President Barack Obama reached out to Texas Governor Rick Perry by phone Thursday morning.
While on the way to a prayer service for the Boston Marathon bombing victims, President Obama called Gov. Perry to tell him that "his prayers are with the people of West, Texas."
President Obama also offered any federal resources needed to assist in the response and recovery efforts.
Gov. Perry responded by Twitter:
Thanks to Pres Obama for his call of support and prayers. — Rick Perry (@GovernorPerry) April 18, 2013
President Obama also placed a call to West Mayor Tommy Muska, but was unable to reach him.
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Gov. Perry plans to hold a press conference at 11:45 a.m. in Austin with updates on the incident.
President Barack Obama released the following statement on the explosion in West, TX:
Today our prayers go out to the people of West, Texas in the aftermath of last night's deadly explosion at a fertilizer plant. A tight-knit community has been shaken, and good, hard-working people have lost their lives. I want to thank the first responders who worked tirelessly through the night to contain the situation and treat the wounded. My Administration, through FEMA and other agencies, is in close contact with our state and local partners on the ground to make sure there are no unmet needs as search and rescue and response operations continue. West is a town that many Texans hold near and dear to their hearts, and as residents continue to respond to this tragedy, they will have the support of the American people.
