Community holds vigil to honor Plano shooting victims

Plano residents gathered Wednesday afternoon for a candlelight vigil to remember the eight lives lost in the September 10 mass shooting on Spring Creek Parkway.

Police shot and killed Spencer Hight after he went on a shooting rampage during a Cowboys watch party, killing his estranged wife Meredith Hight and seven of her friends: Anthony Michael Cross, Olivia Nicole Deffner, James Richard Dunlop, Darryl William Hawkins, Rion Christopher Morgan, Myah Sade Bass and Caleb Seth Edwards.

It's been more than a week since the shooting, but the wounds are still fresh for the families and friends of the eight people who lost their lives that night.

As tears were shed during a moment of silence for the victims, city leaders offered comfort to the victims' families.

“I wanted to make sure we gave them our condolences and make sure they knew we're here if they have any questions or anything we can help them with,” said Plano Police Chief Gregory Rushin.

But it wasn't just city leaders offering their support. Strangers also lit a candle in honor of the victims.

Laurie and Zeb Black just moved to Plano in July. They wanted to show their support for the community.

“Hopefully maybe show that we're coming together and we won't stand for this to happen again,” they said.

Carly Shockey was also at the Cowboys watch party and was shot in the jaw, but she managed to survive.

Those who work with domestic violence victims at shelters like Hope's Door say their shelters are always full and the violence has no easy answer.

“It's going to continue unfortunately to happen until I think we get a better idea of how to work with people who have this type of rage,” said Jim Malatich, CEO of Hope’s Door.

But by pulling together, community members hope to continue to heal and move forward from the tragedy.

“The city of Plano is an amazing place,” said Junior League of Collin County President Sheri Steele. “It will not be defined by one incident. We are Plano Strong, and we always will be.”

Plano police continue to investigate the shooting. They say the initial responding officer who shot and killed Spencer has been cleared by internal investigations and is back at work.

Police hope to finish up the investigation within the next month.