The Associated Press

WASHINGTON—Former President Clinton and New York Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton say they are stunned and shaken by Wednesday's shooting of Arkansas Democratic Party Chairman Bill Gwatney at state party headquarters.

Gwatney has been hospitalized in critical condition.

Arkansas' former governor and first lady call Gwatney a strong state party chairman and "a cherished friend and confidante." The Clintons' joint statement added: "We wish him a quick recovery."

Authorities say a gunman entered the Arkansas Democratic Party headquarters, asked to speak to the state party chairman and fired three shots. Police apprehended the suspect after a chase.