In a devastating incident at a Texas outlet mall, a family of four has been reduced to a family of one as a result of a senseless act of violence. The victims were identified as Korean Americans Cho Kyu Song, 37, his wife Kang Shin Young, 35, and one of their children. The names of the child and their age were not disclosed. The Houston office of the South Korean Consulate confirmed the family’s tragic fate.
The horrific shooting took place on Saturday, resulting in the deaths of eight individuals and leaving at least seven others wounded. The gunman was ultimately killed by an Allen police officer who happened to be at the mall for an unrelated call. This incident adds to the alarming number of over 200 mass shootings that have occurred in the United States this year alone.
The family’s friends set up a GoFundMe page, expressing their deep mourning for the loss of Cindy, Kyu, and their three-year-old son, James. The only surviving member of the family is their six-year-old son, William, who was released from the ICU. The heartbreaking account of their son James revealed his innocence and love for elephants, symbolized by a gray stuffed elephant pinned to his memorial. James was remembered as a bright child, already demonstrating intelligence and writing his own name at the tender age of three.
Another devastating loss was the Mendoza sisters, Daniela and Sofia, who were students in the Wylie Independent School District. Daniela was in fourth grade, and Sofia was in second grade. The district described them as “rays of sunshine,” and their absence will undoubtedly be felt deeply by their school community. Their mother, Ilda Mendoza, is currently in critical condition in the hospital.
Among the victims was Elio Cumana-Rivas, a hardworking man who moved to the United States from Venezuela in pursuit of a better life. He worked as a delivery man and dedicated himself to supporting his family back in Venezuela. Described as kind-hearted and devoted to his loved ones, Elio’s tragic death has left his father in immense pain.
Christian LaCour, a security guard at the mall, displayed immense bravery during the shooting. He saved a person’s life and continued to help others until he was shot himself. LaCour was remembered as a caring and beloved individual who brought joy and safety to those around him.
Aishwarya Thatikonda, a young engineer, was also among the victims. She had recently celebrated her 28th birthday and was described as a loving and hardworking person who was respected by her colleagues. Thatikonda had moved to the United States from India to pursue her master’s degree and had graduated from Eastern Michigan University in 2020.
As the community mourns the tragic loss of these innocent lives, the Telugu Association of North America expressed their condolences for Aishwarya Thatikonda, and Eastern Michigan University paid tribute to their graduate. The families of the victims, both in the United States and abroad, are left grappling with unimaginable grief.