MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) — Five days after a shooting claimed the lives of 26 victims, including 20 children, the National Rifle Association is breaking its silence.

The NRA states, “We were shocked, saddened and heartbroken by the news of the horrific and senseless murders in Newtown. Out of respect for the families, and as a matter of common decency, we have given time for mourning, prayer and a full investigation of the facts before commenting.”

The NRA said it is prepared to offer meaningful contributions to help “make sure this never happens again.”

They will announce their plans at a news conference, scheduled for Friday, Dec. 21 in Washington, D.C.

They said details will be released to the media at the “appropriate time.”