Families of Virginia Beach mass shooting victims gather to mark 4-year anniversary of tragedy
As families of victims of the 2019 mass shooting at a municipal building gathered Wednesday afternoon at the Oceanfront, the cloud-covered sky gave way to the sun.
“Today is about new beginnings,” said former Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax, who addressed the crowd of about 65 people, many wearing matching Virginia Beach 5/31 Families United T-shirts.
Fairfax, who is representing the coalition of families in their fight for compensation from the commonwealth, assured them “change is on the way.”
On May 31, 2019, a city employee shot and killed 12 people at the Virginia Beach Municipal Center. The commemoration event at 31st Street Park was organized separately from the city vigil to be held later in the evening at City Hall.
As they hugged each other and spoke of their loved ones, it was clear many of the family members are finding a new source of healing in their togetherness.
“I feel like we should have been doing this all along,” said Ervin Cox, brother of Keith Cox, who died in the shooting. A dozen members of New Hope Baptist Church, where Cox was an active member, stood with his family.
Other supporters included Michelle Bailey-Pittman, who worked for the city for 23 years. Her office faced Building 2.
“I feel like I had to be here out of respect for friends and coworkers,” she said. “It just breaks my heart every year.”
A moment of silence was held at 4:06 p.m., when the first 911 call reporting the shooting came in. Tidewater Pipes & Drums performed “Amazing Grace,” and families released 12 doves into the air.
Four Virginia Beach City Council members attended: Michael Berlucchi, Worth Remick, Chris Taylor and Sabrina Wooten. Virginia Del. Anne Ferrell Tata and Attorney General Jason Miyares also attended.
Stacy Parker, 757-222-5125, stacy.parker@pilotonline.com
