Monterey Park, California — Residents of Monterey Park gathered Tuesday evening in a poignant display of solidarity and remembrance on the second anniversary of the city’s most tragic mass shooting in history, which claimed the lives of 11 individuals. The candlelight vigil, held in front of City Hall, offered a space for the community to honor the memory of the victims and stand united against acts of violence.
On January 21, 2023, the community was shaken when a gunman opened fire at the Star Ballroom Dance Studio, a popular local venue, killing 11 and seriously injuring nine others. The assailant, 72-year-old Huu Can Tran, continued his armed rampage to another dance studio in nearby Alhambra but was thwarted by Brandon Tsay, a young patron whose brave actions prevented further loss of life. Tsay has been celebrated as a hero in the aftermath of the attack.
The violence occurred on the eve of the Lunar New Year, a significant celebration for the Asian American community, and marked a profound moment of loss for the predominantly Asian American city, renowned as the nation’s first suburban Chinatown. Representative Judy Chu, D-Pasadena, expressed her continued grief and support for the families and survivors, emphasizing the significance of the holiday and the impact of the violence on the community.
According to city officials, the vigil included speeches from community leaders and participation from various organizations involved in ongoing recovery efforts. Participants were encouraged to bring flowers and other memorial items, which were displayed near the flagpoles at the event site until January 30.
The mass shooting is recorded as the deadliest in Los Angeles County’s history. In its wake, former President Joe Biden visited Monterey Park, offering condolences and support to the victims’ families. His visit highlighted nationwide calls for policy changes aimed at curtailing gun violence, culminating in executive actions which were later reinforced in a speech during his State of the Union address on February 7, 2023.
The tragedy and subsequent events have ignited discussions on gun control, community safety, and the resilience of a community in mourning. As the city continues to heal, such vigils serve as a reminder of the collective resolve to prevent future violence and to foster a safe environment for all residents.
In remembrance, community leaders reiterated their commitment to supporting those affected and to building a stronger, more united community. Through these efforts, Monterey Park aims to transform the memory of tragedy into a renewed sense of purpose and togetherness.