City leaders and community members gathered to pay tribute to the lives of AJ Laguerre Jr., Angela Carr and Jerald Gallion.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Almost two years have passed since a racially driven attack took the lives of three individuals at a Dollar General in Jacksonville.
Families of the victims, survivors and community leaders gathered Sunday at Kings Road Memorial Park near where it happened for a ceremony.
“That was a dark day in our history,” said Jacksonville City Council Member Ju’Coby Pittman.
Pittman recalls the harrowing scene she witnessed just steps away from the Kings Road Dollar General right after the shooter killed three people and then turned the weapon on himself.
“The mayor, she was crying,” said Pittman. “There were people out in the street, residents, family members. They didn’t know what was going on.”
Pittman, along with other community leaders, has consistently worked to unite the community each year to honor the memory of the three victims – AJ Laguerre Jr., Angela Carr, and Jerald Gallion.
“To the grieving families, I understand closure may seem impossible,” stated Jacksonville Sheriff TK Waters. “True closure is elusive when losing someone dear in such a horrific manner.”
Family members of the three victims were invited to unveil a plaque on trees dedicated to each one, and to perform a ceremonial watering of the tree.
“For those families who endured so much loss, I can’t assure you that time will bring peace,” expressed Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan. “But I do promise that your cherished memories—and ours—will remain vivid and unwavering.”
Deegan mentioned more has transformed in Jacksonville than just Kings Road Memorial Park since the shooting.
Mayor Deegan commented, “Following this tragedy, the Jacksonville Transformation Coalition was established to focus investments where they’re most needed, with observable improvements. This coalition stemmed from one of JTC’s initial suggestions.”
Just like how she won’t forget what it was like the day the shooting happened, Pittman promised the families she won’t forget to pay tribute to their loved ones every year.
“We should let this family know every year that we will be here at this site as long as I am in office,” said Pittman.
Angela Carr’s brother told First Coast News he’s part of the team responsible for beautifying Kings Road Memorial Park, and said it’s been rewarding laying the decorative rocks and planting flowers in his sister’s memory.
