Gov. Timothy M. Kaine is cutting short an Asian trade trip, returning to Virginia on the first flight home in response to the tragedy at Virginia Tech.

"We expect him tomorrow; he'll go directly to Blacksburg," spokeswoman Delacey Skinner said this afternoon.

In a statement he released today, Kaine said: "It is difficult to comprehend senseless violence on this scale. Our prayers are with the families and friends of these victims and members of the extended Virginia Tech community.

"The state is working closely with Tech officials, local law enforcement and the community health system to provide whatever additional resources and support may be needed.

"My staff has made arrangements for me to leave Tokyo today, where I was set to begin a two-week Asian trade mission, so that I can return to the commonwealth on Tuesday.

"I urge Virginians to keep these victims and their families in their thoughts and prayers."

In his initial response to the shootings, Kaine ordered Secretary of Public Safety John Marshall to Blacksburg. Marshall, a former state trooper, oversees the state police and other emergency agencies.

Tokyo was Kaine's first stop in a two-week trip in which he was planning stops in Japan, Hong Kong and India. Kaine left Richmond on Sunday.

Skinner said Kaine's office, for now, is not commenting on fatalities and injuries.

She said the governor has been in contact with the president of Virginia Tech, Charles W. Steger.

U.S. Sen. Jim Webb, D-Va., in a written statement, said: "I am truly saddened to hear of the tragic shooting at Virginia Tech. My heart goes out to the parents and families of the victims of this senseless act. My office has been in communication with the governor's office and officials at Virginia Tech to offer any assistance."

Del. James M. Shuler, D-Montgomery, a Virginia Tech alumnus whose office is about 15 blocks from the school, said he had been told that many of the casualties occurred in a single classroom, that the suspected assailant "walked into a classroom and opened fire."

"Everybody's just in shock right now," he said. "This is Blacksburg, just a quiet little college town in Southwest Virginia."