You don't need to say a lot

My wife had an emotional day at work.

A 1 year-old baby, of a colleague, drowned.

We took a walk last evening.

Ten years ago, I experienced an unexpected tragic loss.

This is an entry from another blog I was writing in at that time:

Over the years, I've known families who have suffered an unexpected tragic loss. In one family, a husband was involved in a car accident on the way home from work and died instantly. His children went to the same elementary school as my children and I remember how sad I always felt whenever I saw his wife at school functions after his death. I also remember how I would intentionally try to avoid her because I didn't know what to say when we crossed paths.

I do now.
You don't need to say a lot. 

Just say you're sorry for their loss or just be there.
Don't say how shocked you are. 

Anytime someone said that to me I felt like saying "no shit Sherlock."
Don't say how the same thing happened to you.
Don't say "please call if you need anything," especially if you had never shared a close relationship. 

The person(s) going through the tragic loss is trying to process everything and doesn't know exactly what he/she needs.

If so inclined, and if appropriate, show up and do the dishes, take out the trash, do a load of laundry, make a grocery store run. 

Be available to talk, but only if approached.
Of all the words in cards received, these two were the most appreciated:
“There are no words to express how I feel."
"Please know that eventually you will find the light at the end of the tunnel in which you find yourself in at this time."