The Oroville community gathered tonight in a candlelight vigil for two kindergarteners who were injured this week’s shooting at Feather River Adventist School.
What was supposed to be a celebratory Christmas tree lighting was a somber but hopeful night.
Hundreds of Oroville residents gathered before the annual event to honor Roman Mendez, 6, Elias Wolford, 5, who were both shot Wednesday afternoon.
The boys are in stable but critical condition, according to the latest update from the Butte County Sheriff’s Office.
The vigil’s organizer, Stephanie Bever, said the event was not meant to grieve, but to send love and hope to the victims and their families.
Residents gathered tightly around the unlit Christmas tree and held candles while faith leaders led the group in a prayer for the two boys.
Fundraisers for both boys have been started to collect money for what officials have said will be a long and arduous recovery ahead.
Speakers asked that in the days and weeks to come, residents remember the victims of this tragedy and continue to show up, with the same passion and care, as they did during the vigil.
