UPDATE: The small town of Stewartville, Minnesota is reeling after a tragic shooting outside Stewartville High School early on December 12, 2023. A vigil held just days later drew dozens of community members as they come together to mourn the loss of 19-year-old Logan Moyer, who died from an apparent suicide after the incident.
The shooting occurred around 5 a.m. last Friday as the school’s wrestling team prepared for a trip to Grand Forks, North Dakota. Approximately 40 athletes and coaches were present when gunfire erupted, creating chaos and disbelief. One day later, the Olmsted County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Moyer’s death and reported that another individual remains in critical condition at a local hospital.
During the candlelight vigil, held outside C&M Printing, Embroidery & Tanning, around 50 attendees stood together in solidarity, braving the cold to honor the lives affected by the violence. “Friday morning when we got the news, we were all in disbelief,” said Landon Hay, a fellow student. “It took me about a couple hours to actually process what had happened.”
Organizers chose not to hold the vigil at the school, respecting the space meant for learning. “I thought it was important for it to not be at the school,” said CarolAnn Jackson, an event organizer. “But I also knew we had to do something.”
Community leaders, including Charles Jackson, led prayers for both Moyer’s family and the injured individual. “Lord, we pray for the family of Logan,” he stated, highlighting the emotional weight of the tragedy.
As the gathering progressed, a powerful moment unfolded when a single voice began reciting The Lord’s Prayer, soon joined by others in a poignant display of unity. “Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us,” the crowd echoed, illustrating the deep sense of community and shared grief.
Teachers and counselors have stepped up to support students returning to school, with therapy dogs providing comfort during this difficult time. “We had an entire school staff of support behind us,” Hay noted, emphasizing the importance of community in healing.
This unimaginable event has left an indelible mark on Stewartville, a town now united in grief and support. “It was a moment that will forever scar two families,” Hay added, as residents look toward the future while grappling with their loss.
As investigations continue, the community is urged to remain vigilant and support one another through this painful chapter. The road to healing will be long, but the strength of Stewartville’s spirit shines brightly in the wake of tragedy.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
