Two years later: Vigil to be held to honor victims of Azana Spa mass shooting



BROOKFIELD (WITI) -- Tuesday, October 21st marks two years since a mass shooting at a Brookfield salon ended with 7 women shot, 3 killed. It's very fitting that the Sheraton in Brookfield is opening its doors to a vigil for a mass shooting. Nine years ago, there was a mass shooting at a church service inside a room at the hotel.

October 21st, 2012, marks the day a domestic violence situation between a wife and estranged husband went far beyond.

Radcliffe Haughton came into the Azana Salon and Spa where his wife Zina Daniel worked. He opened fire. She was one of the three women killed before he turned the gun on himself.

"I think the lesson of what happened at the spa, it really brought home what we know to be true is that this can impact anybody, anywhere at anytime," said Carmen Pitre, from the Sojourner Truth House.

Tuesday night, there will be a solemn vigil to remember the victims. Everyone touched by domestic violence is encouraged to come. Afterwards, counselors will be there to offer one-on-one private help to anyone who needs it.

"Anytime you have a conversation it's an opportunity to open a door for someone who might be trapped," said Pitre.

The brother of Zina Daniel spoke to FOX6 News from his home in Illinois. He recently testified before a congressional committee, urging universal criminal background checks for anyone who wants to buy a gun -- even though he believes in the right to bear arms.

"I also believe that there are some people at some point in their lives they shouldn't own a gun," said Elvin Daniel.

The Daniel family says it's been a difficult two years, but they believe Zina has become a symbol of strength for domestic violence victims.

"She's a shining star up there. I'm sure she's looking down at what we're doing, and I'm sure she's proud of it," said Elvin.

Elvin Daniel believes if there were universal background checks, Zina might be alive today.

The Women's Center in Racine is helping to organize the event. Several of the victims are from that area.