- State Sen. Creigh Deeds is in critical condition, UVA Hospital spokeswoman says
- Virginia lawmaker stabbed in attack at his home in Bath County
- An unidentified person at the home is dead, police say
(CNN) -- The mysterious wounding of a Virginia state senator and the death of another person at the lawmaker's Bath County home rocked the state's political establishment on Tuesday.
State Sen. Creigh Deeds suffered what the Virginia State Police called "serious injuries" in the assault. He was flown to the University of Virginia Hospital in Charlottesville, where spokeswoman Angela Taylor said he was in critical condition.
Police did not provide any additional details about the person found dead at the home. A news conference was scheduled for noon Tuesday.
Deeds ran unsuccessfully as the Democratic nominee for governor against Republican Bob McDonnell in 2009 and as the Democratic nominee for attorney general -- also against McDonnell -- in 2005. He narrowly lost the latter race in a recount.
Virginia lawmakers reacted to the attack with astonishment and urged prayers for Deeds.
McDonnell, now Virginia governor, released a statement calling the news "heartbreaking."
"In this tough and sad time, our thoughts and prayers are with the Deeds family. The news from this morning is utterly heartbreaking," he said. "Creigh Deeds is an exceptional and committed public servant who has always done what he believes is best for Virginia and who gives his all to public service. He cares deeply about Virginia, and the people of Virginia care deeply for him."
On Twitter, Sen. Mark Warner called the report "stunning news."
"I am praying for @CreighDeeds and his family at this very, very difficult time," he tweeted.
