August 3, 2019, a day that will be cemented in El Paso’s and the United States’ history. A day when tragedy struck and claimed the lives of 23 innocent people who were just going about their day. This day began just like any other, the sun was shining and everyone was living their lives as usual. At the Walmart located at 7101 Gateway West, thousands of customers gathered to take advantage of the back to school deals. The peace was broken at 10:39 a.m. when the first distress call to 911 was received advising of an active shooter in progress. As a result, 23 people lost their lives and 24 more were badly injured. Although the victims lost their lives that day, their memory will live on forever in the hearts of their families and every person that this incident has affected. The intent from this incident was clear: one hate-filled person from outside our loving community tried to intimidate and break as many lives as he could. But he did the opposite. The person failed to realize just how strong and supportive the residents of El Paso are. El Paso and its fellow Americans displayed a toughness and resilience as we had never seen before. The tragedy prompted acts of kindness and support from the entire country. The whole nation came together and through their kindness were able to collect over six million dollars for the victims and their families. Locally, hundreds lined up at the blood donation centers across El Paso to donate blood for the victims. Endless supplies were collected to aid the victims and first responders. This day will forever remain in our minds and hearts, but it will not break us. We are, have been, and always will be EL PASO STRONG EL PASO STRONG • 2019 ANNUAL REPORT EL PASO STRONG
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