In a recent tragedy, Monterey Park fell victim to gun violence. As the community tries to rebuild itself, the remnants of the fateful day still remain.

Right on the 22nd, just barely coming into the new year, 11 people in Monterey Park lost their lives to a man with a gun. Monterey Park is a city in California, home to many Asian-Americans. The incident took place right after a large gathering where people celebrated the Lunar New Year. According to Robert Luna, a Los Angeles County sheriff, the suspect was a 72-year-old man by the name of Huu Can Tran who had “hundreds of rounds of ammunition contained.” What’s more, it took the department several hours after the incident for them to announce there was an active shooter. These people gathered to celebrate life, only for it to end a few hours later due to a lack of protection.

The silver lining is that a hero named Brandon Tsay was on the scene to disarm the perpetrator. In a video clip, he’s shown risking his life, wrestling with the gunman for a few minutes before gaining control of the gun. After the event, he was rightfully awarded a medal of courage by the city of Alhambra, California. Even the president of the United States, Joe Biden, had called Tsay directly to thank him. In the call, he said, “I wanted to call to see how you’re doing and thank you for taking such incredible action in the face of danger.” Biden continued on, saying Tsay had his respect, and that he embodied what America stands for. As we remember the victims of this tragedy, we will also remember Tsay’s resilience.

Citizens of Monterey Park are coming together, holding vigils, to honor those that lost their lives. We stand with them, and hope for a brighter future.