Denver, Colorado – On the eve of the 25th anniversary of the Columbine High School shooting, a somber vigil was held to honor the 13 victims of the tragic event that shook the nation. Among those remembered were students like Rachel Scott, Kyle Velasquez, and Corey DePooter, whose lives were tragically cut short on that fateful day.
The vigil, attended by about 150 people, featured short biographies of each victim, with the crowd responding with a collective “never forgotten” after each reading. As candles flickered on 13 empty chairs, a bell tolled in remembrance of those who lost their lives in the shooting.
One of the youngest victims was 14-year-old Steven Curnow, while the oldest was teacher Dave Sanders, who heroically guided students to safety before being fatally shot. Each victim was honored during the vigil, with their stories serving as a sobering reminder of the impact of gun violence on communities.
Family members of the victims, such as Sanders’ daughter Coni Sanders and Daniel Mauser’s father Tom Mauser, emphasized the importance of never forgetting the victims of Columbine. They called on the community to take action to address gun violence and ensure that such tragedies are never repeated.
Former Arizona Congresswoman Gabby Giffords, a strong advocate for gun safety, also addressed the crowd, urging them to work together to bring about meaningful change. Her presence highlighted the long-term impact of gun violence on survivors and the need for collective action to prevent future tragedies.
Nathan Hochhalter, whose sister was paralyzed in the shooting, shared his own harrowing experience of being trapped in a classroom during the attack. He spoke about the importance of seeking help and support, both for survivors of gun violence and those facing mental health challenges.
As the community came together to honor the victims of Columbine, the vigil served as a poignant reminder of the lasting impact of the tragic event. The call to action for greater gun safety measures and support for those affected by gun violence echoed throughout the ceremony, a testament to the resilience and strength of the Columbine community.