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RIDGELAND, S.C. () – In the aftermath of a tragic shooting last December, a Ridgeland-based organization dedicated to gun safety and awareness is amplifying its mission to prevent further tragedies.
Lahoma Scott, the driving force behind Families Against Gun Violence, launched this initiative in memory of her nephew, Dominique, whose life was tragically cut short by gun violence in 2014.
Scott recalls the devastating moment she learned of her nephew’s death. Upon arriving at the scene, she was met with silence, as no one present could account for the incident.
“With so many people around, I was shocked that no one witnessed anything,” Scott expressed incredulously.
Determined to honor Dominique’s legacy, Scott established Families Against Gun Violence, ensuring his voice would continue to resonate in the fight against gun violence.
The group has been meeting for more than ten years to support those experiencing loss, promote gun safety and encourage anyone who sees something to speak up to law enforcement to help investigations move forward.
“Afterwards, some will say, ‘You know what? I feel a little better for getting it out because I really never wanted to talk about it,” said Scott.
Scott said after the Christmas Eve shooting, she wanted to reach the families affected and invite them into the community she has built.
She planned a candlelight vigil on Saturday for anyone in the community who wanted to pray or speak on gun violence.
She said the organization hosts similar events throughout the year.
“I’m always trying to reach out to the family members,” said Scott. “And I know that they’re going through their grieving process, but maybe with me having this openness out like this, they can see that the community cares. They can see that people are concerned and just want to be there for support and show them.”
To learn more about Families Against Gun Violence events, click or tap here.