Norwalk to mark anniversary of Newtown shooting

NORWALK, Conn. – A moment of silence will be observed Saturday, Dec. 14, to remember the victims of the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown.

Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling called upon Norwalk citizens to devote the moment of silence at 9:30 a.m. in observance of the one-year anniversary of the tragic events that claimed the lives of 20 children and six adults at the school, plus the shooter and his mother.

“The emotions that drew our community together in shared pain and sadness remain fresh even a year later,” Rilling said in a press release. “Of course, this is especially true for the loved ones of those who lost their lives in the senseless shootings. It is appropriate for Norwalk residents to join once again, express condolences to our neighbors in Newtown and solidify our resolve to ensure such events do not happen again.”

Rilling has endorsed Gov. Dannel Malloy’s request that all houses of worship observe a moment of collective mourning by ringing their bells 26 times at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday to honor the victims of the Sandy Hook shootings.

“Ringing the bells will allow us all to mourn the tragedy of a year ago and to remind ourselves of our obligation to work toward a better community,” said Rilling. “Even as we grieve over the events of a year ago, we can use this occasion to express a collective determination to enhance our neighborhood, boost our community and find harmony with our fellow citizens. I encourage donation to a local charity, volunteering time in the community and simple acts of kindness to one another.”