File photo from Wikimedia Creative Commons by Dear Edward
Members of the Indianapolis community gathered Saturday night for a candlelight vigil while the family of shooter Brandon Scott Hole issued an apology.
“We are devastated at the loss of life caused as a result of Brandon’s actions; through the love of his family, we tried to get him the help he needed,” the statement said. “Our sincerest and most heartfelt apologies go out to the victims of this senseless tragedy. We are so sorry for the pain and hurt being felt by their families and the entire Indianapolis community.”
The family warned police last year their son would try to die by suicide by cop. Authorities interviewed their son and confiscated a firearm from him. Yet he was later able to legally obtain two rifles used in the massacre, according to USA Today.
Hole killed himself before police could arrive to the scene of the shooting.
On Saturday night, Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett and Rep Andre Carson (D-Indianapolis) joined with family and friends of the victims at Krannert Park, reported the Indy Star.
“We can’t continue living with the constant threat of gun violence everywhere we go,” Carson said. “It’s not normal. It will never be normal. … Let’s turn this tragedy into a catalyst of change and create safer communities for all Americans.”
The community also came together for a vigil earlier in the day at Olivet Missionary Baptist Church, reported Fox59.
“Life will never be the same in any capacity and so to know that it’s okay to not be okay, take life one moment at a time, and just know there are people in your community who are ready to surround you and lift you up and are here to support you through this journey of grief,” said DeAndra Dycus, the founder of Purpose 4 My Pain.
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