TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Days after a mass shooting on Perry Street in Tallahassee, faith leaders and community members gathered at Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church for a prayer vigil aimed at supporting victims and helping the community move forward.
Organizers described the public event as a way for the community to come together in the aftermath of the shooting, which happened after the FAMU homecoming weekend post-game events.
Pastor Stanley Walker of Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church said he ministered to one of the victims and believed the vigil was needed. “After I finished praying with Kay Kay and asked here did she hear me she gave the thumbs up that she heard me and yet she has a long way to go and that’s why we coming together, touching and agreeing and praying for our victims,” Walker said.
Tallahassee Police Chief Lawrence Revell provided an update on the investigation and the victims’ conditions, saying all 11 people who were injured are still recovering. Revell said five people have been released from the hospital and six remain hospitalized.
“Right now the investigation is still proceeding, and we are still following up a lot of Leeds and we appreciate the community for giving those leads but right now nothing has changed for the status of the victims,” Revell said.
Revell said he is urging anyone with information about the Perry Street shooting to contact Crime Solvers, noting that anonymous tips could help.
He also said police will have increased patrols this coming weekend as both Florida A&M and Florida State have big games Saturday in Tallahassee, along with Halloween.
“Because we have two home games and Halloween, so all of my officers are going to be working and very busy again this weekend. But that’s what we do, we are here to serve this community, we say all of the time we are here for you,” Revell said.
As the investigation continues, a 15-year-old suspect is in jail, and community leaders said they are focused on supporting victims and looking ahead.
“Our faith in huma kind, our trust in our community, and our hope for our children in their future remains resolute and steadfast. That’s what we carry forward,” said Leon County Commissioner Bill Proctor, who represents District 1.
Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact Crime Solvers.