ST. LOUIS – Families who've had loved ones taken by homicide had a chance to honor them on Saturday, and they had help from others who've shared the same pain.
Leaders from the Crime Victim Advocacy center and the Homicide Ministers & Community Alliance hosted a vigil for families affected by homicide.
During the event, people could share their stories and honor their loved ones while learning how to navigate their loss.
Guest speakers included St. Louis Metropolitan Police chief John Hayden, and St. Louis County Police chief Jon Belmar. Both officials briefly talked about changes that need to be implemented to stop the violence.
Lanna Green is one parent who was at the vigil. Green lost her son 29-year-old Andrew Green in April 2017 after her son was gunned down in the street. She said in addition to police efforts to stop violence, it's going to take a lot of help from the communities to minimize violence.
"It's been hard. My son was shot four times, three times in the head and one in the torso. It’s too much killing going on, it hurts but now I’m being strong for me,” Green said.
So far this year there have been 45 homicides compared to last year in April where there was more than 50. And, although this is a heartbreak that seems to never heal for a parent, Green had a special message for the person responsible for killing her son.
"Whoever pulled the trigger and killed my son I forgive you,” Green said.
She said she won’t have peace until the case is solved.
"I'm just ready for the closure. My sons case has not been solved. I want it to be done so I can move on with my life," Green said.
And for anyone who shares the same pain she had a message for them too.
"You will have your moments but just take it one day at a time," Green said.
