Trolley service remembers victims of rampage

In the silence of this holy place, Dorene Frantz came to find a sense of peace.

The aunt of shooting victim Brad Frantz came to St. Mark's Episcopal Cathedral to participate in a service remembering those who died and were wounded in the rampage at Trolley Square.

"It's hard for people to move on just because of the brutality of what happened," she said Tuesday. "It's hard for people to grasp."

In prayer and communion, a small group of people came to reflect on the one year anniversary of the tragedy. There were police officers, firefighters and friends and relatives of those who died.

"We come together to remember, before God, our brothers and sisters who died and who were injured in the Trolley Square shooting one year ago today," said the Rev. Robin James. "To give thanks for their lives and to comfort one another in our grief."

As she read their names, a candle was lit for each of the dead and the wounded: Teresa Ellis, Brad Frantz, Kirsten Hinckley, Vanessa Quinn, Jeff Walker, Stacy Hanson, Shawn Munns, Carolyn Tuft, AJ Walker — and Sulejman Talovic.

"We recognize all as children of God," James said afterward. "Remember him as a child of God as well."

A candle was also lit for law enforcement, who risked their lives to save the lives of others.

"The Lord be with you," James said.

"And also with you," the congregation replied.

As the service ended, the cathedral bells were rung. Salt Lake County Sheriff's deputy Tracy Doyle left the service wiping away tears.

"It was very emotional," she said. "This has been trying for me."

Doyle was a first-responder to the mall and witnessed much of the carnage. She helped to evacuate mall patrons, who were hiding during the killing spree.

Salt Lake City Deputy Fire Chief Dan Andrus also came to participate in the Holy Eucharist.

"I think it reflects the community's pains and (the service) is trying to be a healing presence here," he said.

The Rev. James said it is important for people to remember and grieve, and let God help them grieve.

"I believe God is in our joy and happiness and God is in our sorrow," she said.

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E-mail: bwinslow@desnews.com