MADISON (WITI) -- Governor Scott Walker has issued the following statement honoring the victims, their families, and survivors of the August 5, 2012 tragedy at the Sikh Temple of Wisconsin in Oak Creek:
"One year ago, in the wake of the senseless violence, our friends and neighbors in the Sikh community showed us the best way to respond to the tragedy was with love. It is amazing that in the midst of so much personal loss, the greatness of American character shines through.
Tonette and I join with others in our state and across the nation to offer our prayers and support to the survivors and families who lost loved ones as they continue to heal."
The official one-year anniversary of the Sikh Temple shooting is Monday, August 5th, but the Sikh community has been marking the anniversary with special events all weekend long.
Hundreds made their way Saturday to Oak Creek High School to participate in the Chardi Kala 6K Run/Walk event, organized by members of the Sikh Temple, is in remembrance of the six worshipers who were killed in the August 2012 shooting.
Chardi Kala means “stay in good spirits,” and organizers decided on a 6K, instead of the typical 5K, in memory of the six victims. An additional 2K walk honored the struggles of the two people who were injured in the shooting.
Donations collected during the event will help support a scholarship fund for area college students as well as a Sikh memorial fund, established in the wake of the temple shooting.
Six people were killed in the shooting, and three were injured, including Oak Creek Police Lt. Brian Murphy, who was among the first responders to the scene that day.