We are deeply saddened to learn about the mass shootings that occurred recently in Baltimore (MD), Philadelphia (PA), and Fort Worth (TX). On behalf of VictimsFirst, we extend our sincerest condolences to these communities as they grapple with the aftermath of these senseless acts of mass violence.
In Baltimore, two people were murdered and 28 were wounded at a crowded neighborhood block party. Those killed were Aaliyah Gonzalez (18) and Kylis Fagbemi (20).
In Philadelphia, five lives were stolen and four more people were wounded, including children in a mass shooting that occurred in the southwestern Kingsessing area of the city. Those killed were Daujan Brown (15), Lashyd Merritt (20), Dymir Stanton (29), Joseph Wamah Jr. (31), and Ralph Moralis (59).
In Fort Worth, three lives were stolen and 8 were injured in a mass shooting after a Fourth of July celebration known as ComoFest. Those murdered included Cynthia Santos (22), Paul Willis (18), and another victim whose identity has not yet been released to the public.
We understand the immense pain, grief, and uncertainty that envelops communities during this excruciating time, and we—families of the deceased, victims and survivors from previous mass shootings—stand in solidarity with you, offering our support to help you navigate this immensely challenging period.
Community and nonprofit leaders should read our Best Practices, which have been utilized in the aftermath of mass shootings around the world.
VictimsFirst is a volunteer-run organization that fights to ensure 100% of all donations go directly to victims/survivors of mass violence.
We currently do not have the resources to set up individual funds for each one of these mass shootings, however, we remain committed to helping victims' families and survivors of these shootings through our National Mass Shooting Victims Fund. The direct financial assistance that we can provide out of this fund relies entirely on donations from the generous public. 100% of what we collect into this fund goes directly to victims/survivors. We do not take any administration fees.
We will help the families and survivors in Baltimore, Philadelphia, and Forth Worth as much as we can through our National Mass Shooting Victims Fund—as funds allow.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if there is anything we can do to assist you, or if you need someone to talk to. We understand that healing is a gradual process, and we are committed to being there for you every step of the way.
Once again, our heartfelt condolences go out to the families of the victims, the survivors, and the communities affected by these tragic atrocities.
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