Jacksonville, Fla. — A community prayer vigil is set to take place Thursday morning, honoring the memories of Angela Carr, Jerrald Gallion, and A.J. Laguerre Jr., who lost their lives in a racially motivated attack at a Dollar General nearly two years ago. The event will serve as a solemn reminder of the tragic incident that has left a lasting impact on the city.
In August of this year, a historic marker was unveiled near the Dollar General to commemorate the victims and acknowledge the courage of a survivor. The marker is now located at Kings Road Memorial Park and prominently displays the date of the shooting along with the phrase “Lives Lost,” symbolizing both the grief and resilience of the community.
On August 26, 2023, a 21-year-old gunman entered the store and opened fire, resulting in the deaths of 19-year-old Laguerre, 29-year-old Gallion, and 52-year-old Carr before taking his own life. Authorities, including Sheriff T.K. Waters, confirmed that the shooter’s writings indicated a clear motive rooted in racial hatred, adding a layer of heartbreak to an already tragic event.
“This is a dark day in Jacksonville,” Sheriff Waters stated shortly after the shooting. “Every loss of life is a tragedy, but the hate that drove the shooter amplifies the sorrow.”
The vigil will coincide with Juneteenth, a federal holiday recognizing the end of slavery in the United States, further underscoring the significance of the gathering. Community leaders are urging residents to come together in remembrance and reflection.
The shooter had a history of disturbing ideologies, as evidenced by manifestos he left behind. Law enforcement revealed that he had been spotted wearing a mask and ballistic vest at Edward Waters University before heading to the Dollar General, provoking panic among students who were instructed to stay indoors until the area was secured.
The three victims have been remembered not just for their tragic ends, but also for their vibrant lives. Laguerre was working at the Dollar General to assist his family while planning to pursue studies in cybersecurity. Known as a kind soul with a passion for video gaming, his aspirations to become a professional streamer showed his youthful energy.
Carr was a devoted mother and an Uber driver who was killed in her vehicle while waiting for a passenger. Her family described her as a caring individual whose community commitment extended to her church, which has rallied for support in the wake of her loss.
Gallion, who had just stepped into the store with his girlfriend, was remembered as a dedicated father and hardworking individual who balanced multiple jobs to provide for his daughter. Tragically, he never reached her that day, a reality that has left a profound sense of loss in the hearts of his family.
As the community prepares to gather for the vigil, the stories of these three individuals highlight not only the impact of their lives but also the enduring need for compassion and unity in the face of hatred.