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The Hokie Nation, along with the Blacksburg community, came together Monday night on Alumni Mall for a candlelight vigil to honor the five students killed in a shooting rampage at Northern Illinois University last Thursday.
Last night’s vigil, which was organized by Hokie United, a student group that planned several events at Tech after last April's shootings, was hoping to attract at least 10,000 people. While, the exact number is unknown, officials estimated at least 3,000 to 5,000 people might have shown up. “I came out tonight to show my support because I felt it was the right thing to do,” said Ethan Williams. “Other schools and people supported us in our time of need and now we need to support them in their time of need.” In addition to last night’s vigil, a Hokie stone, which was painted red and black – NIU school colors – will also be sent to the DeKalb, Ill., campus, along with care packages from the Virginia Tech and the Blacksburg community. “I feel sorry for their families,” stated Missy Holloway. “We went through the same pain as they are and we definitely know how they feel.” Virginia Tech President Charles Steger told the crowd, “This is a wonderful expression of solitude. You will look back on this night and you will never forget.” As the vigil came to an end, the crowd started chanting “Let’s Go Huskies”, as well as singing “Amazing Grace.” Photos: (Top left) Virginia Tech President Charles Steger addresses the crowd at Monday night’s vigil. (Right) These students show their support for NIU by attending the vigil. (Photos by David Grimes)
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