Nearly 800 miles separate Nicholasville from Newtown, Conn., but the impact of Friday’s shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School was felt by many locally.
Last Friday morning in Newtown, authorities say that 20-year-old Adam Lanza broke into the school and opened fire, killing 26 people, including 20 elementary-school children, before killing himself.
In an effort to honor those who lost their lives, East Jessamine High School student Brittany Blair is organizing a candlelight vigil, which is scheduled for 6 p.m. Friday at Rock Fence Park.
Blair learned about the tragedy after she got home from school.
“I got home on Friday and saw it on the news, and it broke my heart,” Blair said. “My aunt and I were talking the other day and we decided that we should (hold a vigil) in Nicholasville. So I brought it to a few of my friends’ attention Monday morning, and the next thing I know, we’re making fliers and we’re going and talking to classes about it.”
Blair is unsure how many people will show up but said anyone in the community who wishes to participate is welcome to attend.
She also said her friends at West Jessamine High School are also getting the word out, and she has also announced it at the Jessamine Career and Technology Center.
“I didn’t expect a lot of people to come, but now I’m expecting a lot,” Blair said.
Nicholasville police Sgt. Scott Harvey said there would be a police presence at Rock Fence Park during the vigil to support the effort.
Blair urges those who want to attend to bring their own candle. For more information on the event, call Blair at 859-552-2380.
