USCCB prays for victims of Waukesha parade tragedy. | Courtesy of Unsplash
On Nov. 21, a vehicle, manned by Darrell Brooks Jr., drove through the annual Waukesha Christmas parade, striking multiple individuals and killing six individuals, as well as injuring more than 40 others.
The intention behind the attack is still unknown, although Brooks has a laundry list of former criminal activity.
“We pray for all those who are injured or who lost their lives in the tragic accident in Waukesha, Wisconsin, especially for the families, parishioners and priest in @archmil. Lord, hear our prayer,” the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops tweeted.
The Catholic community in the city has suffered a number of injuries to their parishioners, including school-aged children and parishioners who were participating in the parade. The Archdiocese of Milwaukee had a priest injured in the attack.
In a statement, the Gov. of Wisconsin Tony Evers, said “Kathy and I are praying for Waukesha tonight and all the kids, families and community members affected by this senseless act. I'm grateful for the first responders and folks who acted quickly to help, and we are in contact with local partners as we await more information,” according to JSOnline.
According to The Independent, the suspected driver of the vehicle is 39-year-old Brooks and he is facing six counts of first-degree intentional homicide after his actions claimed the lives of five adults and one child. Brooks’ bail is currently set at $5 million.
The victims of Brooks’ action who lost their lives were Tamara Durand, Jane Kulich, Wilhelm Hospel, Leanna Owen, Virginia “Ginny” Sorenson and Jackson Sparks.
The parade which Brooks attacked is one of the biggest holiday celebrations of the year and is usually the start of the holiday season in Waukesha’s downtown. Schools were closed Nov. 22 and were offering counselors for the students who needed emotional support after the traumatic event.