EL PASO (WBAP/KLIF) – Officials and residents in El Paso acknowledged on Tuesday, the two year anniversary of the mass shooting at local Wal Mart store that left 23 people dead.
According to Police, alleged shooter Patrick Crusius of Allen drove to El Paso where carried out the massacre on August 3, 2019. A manifesto later revealed Crusius may may been targeting Hispanics.
The El Paso community is still healing.
“We like to stress acts of kindness because I think this is going to be the overarching approach that we have in our community,” said El Paso County Judge Ricardo Samaniego. “Our office, along with our public works departments, have been working very hard to create a beautiful place to unite, heal, and reflect for everyone who was impacted.”
The county unveiled a healing garden to be used for reflection.
Governor Greg Abbott today issued a statement on the 2nd anniversary of the El Paso shooting:
“Two years ago today, a heinous and senseless act of violence destroyed countless lives in the El Paso community. As we dealt with the aftermath of the horrific violence and overwhelming grief, we also saw the true spirit of what it means to be a Texan.”
The Governor said people from every corner of Texas banded together to support and uplift El Pasoans during their time of loss.
“And together as a state, we stepped up to protect our communities and prevent future tragedies,” said Governor Abbott. “Following the shootings in El Paso and Odessa, I issued eight executive orders directing state law enforcement to enhance anti-mass violence measures, convened the Texas Safety Commission to identify any shortcomings in our systems, and highlighted DPS’ safe gun storage campaign. Today, and every day, we remember and honor the lives of those cut short that day. And we strive each and every day to create a safer and brighter future for all in the Lone Star State.”
Crusius is charged in the killings and is behind bars awaiting trial.
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