Dirk Nowitzki reacts to Dallas police shootings

Mavericks star Dirk Nowitzki addressed Thursday’s Dallas police shooting on Twitter.

Your teams. Your favorite writers. Wherever you want them. Personalize SI with our new App. Install on iOS or Android.​

Mavericks star Dirk Nowitzki took to Twitter to address Thursday night’s police shooting in Dallas.

“Still in shock,” the longtime Mavs forward wrote. “Saddened to hear about the tragic events in Dallas. My Thoughts are with everyone, who are affected. #StoptheViolence.” 

Five police officers were shot and killed by gunmen who opened fire at a protest in Dallas on Thursday evening. The shooting is the deadliest event for police since Sept. 11.

The protest was arranged to be an organized response to the recent police killings of black men Alton Sterling and Philando Castile this past week. The peaceful demonstration turned violent when the shooters took aim at police officers. A total of 12 officers were shot, leaving five dead and seven injured. Two civilians were also wounded in the gunfire.

Mavs owner Mark Cuban also weighed in.

Still in shock. Saddened to hear about the tragic events in Dallas. My Thoughts are with everyone, who are affected. #StoptheViolence

— Dirk Nowitzki (@swish41) July 8, 2016

Dallas,we mourn those who lost their lives protecting us and stand together, united, to cherish those we live and work next to #DallasStrong

— Mark Cuban (@mcuban) July 8, 2016

One suspect was killed after a shootout with police, and three additional suspects are in custody.

Many athletes have reacted on social media as news of the shooting unfolds.