Deputy NSC spokesperson Caitlin Hayden offered this written statement on the Afghanistan shooting:

"The President was informed this morning of the incident by his senior national security staff and received a briefing from them early this afternoon before calling President Karzai. This afternoon’s meeting included National Security Advisor Tom Donilon, Deputy National Security Advisor Denis McDonough, and Special Assistant to the President for Afghanistan and Pakistan Doug Lute."

The White House released a written statement from President Obama expressing his condolences to the Afghan people and his desire to fully investigate the incident.

"I am deeply saddened by the reported killing and wounding of Afghan civilians. I offer my condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives, and to the people of Afghanistan, who have endured too much violence and suffering. This incident is tragic and shocking, and does not represent the exceptional character of our military and the respect that the United States has for the people of Afghanistan. I fully support Secretary Panetta’s and General Allen’s commitment to get the facts as quickly as possible and to hold accountable anyone responsible."

After reports that an American service member allegedly shot more than a dozen Afghan civilians in Kandahar province, Jay Carney, White House Press Secretary, said, “We are deeply concerned by the initial reports of this incident, and are monitoring the situation closely."

Administration officials confirmed that President Obama had been briefed on the situation.