HALF MOON BAY, Calif. (AP) — It has been a year since the tragic shooting in Half Moon Bay that took the lives of seven farmworkers. To honor the victims and survivors of the mass shooting, the city has scheduled a One-Year Remembrance Ceremony.
On January 23, 2023, farmworker Chunli Zhao allegedly shot eight people, killing seven at two separate mushroom farms where he worked. The tragedy profoundly impacted the community, and now, the city aims to focus on healing and transformation for the farm workers.
The ceremony, to be held at the Boys and Girls Club Event Center, will feature speakers including members of the Half Moon Bay City Council, State Sen. Josh Becker, Assembly member Marc Berman, San Mateo County District 3 Supervisor Ray Mueller, and former United States Rep. Jackie Speier. Musicians will perform a unique sound healing activity using various instruments, and a candlelight procession will be held in honor of the victims.
The mass shooting brought attention to the poor living conditions, mental health, and fair pay issues faced by the city’s farmworkers. The tragedy prompted the city to take action in addressing these concerns and to provide better support for the farmworker community.
The city is also focusing on providing more affordable housing for farm workers and their families. A 46-unit affordable housing development for farmworkers and their families is being planned at a city-owned site on Stonepine Road.
Zhao, the alleged shooter, is facing multiple charges, including seven counts of murder and one count of attempted murder, along with special circumstances on the murder charges. His next court hearing is scheduled for March 18 for a preliminary hearing, and he remains in custody on no bail status.
As the city comes together to remember the victims of the tragedy, they are also committed to working towards a better future for the farmworkers and their families.