Houston community reacts to mass shooting in California during Lunar New Year celebrations

HOUSTON The tragedy in California did not stop Lunar New Year celebrations across the country, including events taking place in Houston on Sunday afternoon and evening.

Many people hesitated to come to the event at Discovery Green, but said they would not let fear stop them from taking part in the celebration that means so much to them.

It was truly an evening full of celebration, Golden Dragon Li, performers and fun for the whole family.

“It was very nice to see all the dancing that was going on. It was a lot for all age groups. It was really cool and Aurelia Sky was great to watch at the end,” said Thomas Martigue.

The festivities come almost a day after a gunman opened fire during a Lunar New Year celebration in a predominantly Asian-American community in Monterey Park, California.

Maricruz Kwon from Southern California.

“Just hearing about it and just knowing it’s close to home, it’s just really sad because no one bothers anyone and just the audacity to just go and do something like that is really terrible and it ruins everything for everyone.” Kwon said. “Indeed, what do you gain from this?”

As a result of the shooting, 10 people were killed and several more were injured. The motive remains unknown.

“It’s pretty much a parody of what’s still happening today, even as we get closer and closer, especially around Chinese New Year,” Martigues said.

Despite the mass shooting, families gathered at Discovery Green to sing, dance and support various bands and performers.

“I really hope that this will bring more people together than tear them apart. It affects everyone. I don’t care who you are or what color you are. This applies to everyone,” Kwon said.

Mayor Turner released the following statement regarding local holidays:

“I am thinking of Monterey Park, California as our country has experienced another mass shooting. Please pray for the victims of the shooting and their loved ones. Unfortunately, this event happened at the #LunarNewYear event. I asked the Houston police to increase security at various Lunar New Year events to keep everyone safe. If you see anything suspicious or know of anything that could pose a threat to public safety, report it to law enforcement.”