MONTEREY PARK, Calif. – Nearly one year after the tragic mass shooting at the Star Ballroom Dance Studio, the community is still grappling with the aftermath. Families and survivors of the shooting are mourning the loss of loved ones and working towards healing and recovery. To show gratitude to the first responders who tended to the victims, Ronald Tom and his family recently visited the local fire station, bringing with them steamed Chinese buns as a gesture of appreciation.
Tragically, Ronald Tom’s wife, Diana Tom, was among those injured in the shooting and passed away shortly after. However, Ronald expressed his gratitude to the first responders, acknowledging that they provided his wife with the chance to be brought to the hospital, allowing her family to say their final goodbyes. This sentiment speaks to the profound impact of the tragedy on the community, as survivors and families continue to honor their loved ones in various ways.
In remembrance of the victims, the city of Monterey Park is planning a candlelight vigil to mark the one-year anniversary of the shooting. This somber event serves as a testament to the enduring grief and emotional impact of the tragedy on the community. Despite the passage of time, the wounds from that fateful night are still fresh, illustrating the lasting effects of such devastating events.
The shooting, which occurred during a Lunar New Year celebration, deeply affected the predominantly Asian American community. Survivors and families of the victims have found solace in creating tributes and support funds, organizing events, and participating in advocacy efforts for gun control legislation. These initiatives reflect the community’s resilience and determination to honor the memories of those lost.
The emotional toll of the shooting is also evident in the personal stories of the survivors and their families. For Fonda Quan, the loss of her aunt, Mymy Nhan, compounded the grief of already recent loss in the family. However, finding purpose in creating a community support fund and a scholarship in her aunt’s honor has become a source of healing and a way to keep her memory alive.
The tragic events of that night have also spurred individuals like Lloyd Gock to become advocates for gun control reform and mental health destigmatization. Additionally, Fonda Quan’s family found healing through community activities and dedicating themselves to initiatives that honor their late aunt’s memory.
As the community continues to heal and seek closure, their efforts have brought them closer together and fostered a sense of resilience in the face of tragedy. The forthcoming anniversary banquet will serve as a testament to the community’s strength and the unwavering spirit of the survivors and families affected by the shooting.
The visit to the fire station embodied the ongoing process of healing and connection, demonstrating the enduring impact of the shooting on the community. The profound gestures of appreciation from the families of the victims have provided a source of solace for the first responders who were deeply impacted by the traumatic events of that night. This ongoing exchange of gratitude and support represents a vital part of the community’s collective healing as they continue to navigate the aftermath of the tragic shooting.