Columbine: Victims Still Coping…10 Years Later
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Columbine: Victims Still Coping...10 Years Later...
In colorado, many remembered the second worst school shooting in U.S. history, on Monday. It was 10 years ago, Monday, that two teenage gunmen carried out a methodical massacre at Columbine High Schoo...
In Colorado, many remembered the second worst school shooting in U.S. history, on Monday. It was 10 years ago, Monday, that two teenage gunmen carried out a methodical massacre at Columbine High School, in Littleton, Colorado. They murdered thirteen, before killing themselves. Though the pain may always remain, survivors are hoping to make this anniversary a turning point. ABC News’ Paula Haddock is in Littleton, Colorado with more on the big story.
Published: April 20, 2009
Littleton, CO—Police communitactions: “All units…shots fired at Columbine High School…“
The terrifying images of the shooting at Columbine High School are seared into our memories…students fleeing for their lives…SWAT teams storming the sprawling Colorado campus…the distraught comforting each other…
Victim, crying: “All of a sudden, gunshots, and we heard glass breaking.“
One of the most disturbing and enduring images of Columbine was of Patrick Ireland, flinging himself over the shattered libary window after being shot twice in the head, and once in the leg. He looks back at that moment as a sign of strength and perserverance.
Patrick Ireland, Columbine survivor: “The image was more of a positive light of saying, ‘hey, we are not going to lose, evil is not going to win in this situation.‘“
Inside the school, the two gunmen, Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold, methodically walked from room to room, killing 12 students and a teacher.
Victim: “The gunman are right outside the library…“
Many of the students were shot inside the libary, including Valeen Schnurr, and her friend, Lauren Townsend… Lauren did not survive.
Valeen Schnurr, Columbine survivor: “We were holding hands, trying to keep each other calm…telling each other, ‘we are going to be ok’...it didn’t turn out that way…(crying).“
Ten years later, reminders of that fateful day are everywhere. The library has now been renamed the Hope Columbine Memorial Library. Display cases and a floor-to-ceiling plaque honor the 13 who were murdered.
Sunday night, a candlelight vigil was held at Clement Park to honor and remember those who were touched by the tragedy.
Connie Nelson, daughter of Dave Sanders, slain teacher: “We’ve spent ten years, every year, remembering his death. I think from here on out, we’re really going to try to celebrate his life.“
Paula Haddock, reporting: “A public memorial service will be held this evening…followed by a private service for the families. Several survivors are scheduled to speak to the crowd…and there will be a message from former President Bill Clinton, who was in office during the attack…“
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