For Immediate Release: June 7, 2023

Bishop Knestout Statement on Deadly Shooting Following Richmond High School Graduation

“Yesterday a violent shooting occurred, this time following a Richmond public high school graduation, resulting in the loss of life and multiple injuries.

“Seven months after an act of gun violence took the lives of three University of Virginia college students, we, in our diocese, are faced with another wrenching act of violence.

“This callous act and subsequent chaotic, terrorizing scene occurred just yards away from our Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, causing fear and pandemonium for so many leaving the ceremony. What should have been a day of celebration for families and of student achievements – instead is marred by gun violence.

“Words fail to fully express the trauma so many experienced yesterday, and the lives crushed because of it. However, I am immensely grateful for our law enforcement community who, despite the chaos, were there to respond swiftly and bring order to a confusing scene.

“In this month of June, in which we celebrate the Sacred Heart of Jesus, may our Lord bring consolation and healing to the lives affected and suffering because of yesterday’s violence. May he hold their broken hearts in his.”

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