The memorial in “The Most Vicious Cycle” features photos of real victims of different types of gun violence across the United States. Read the stories of these people below.
David Hresil
David was 18 years old when his life was taken because of senseless gun violence in Chicago. In his free time, he enjoyed hanging out with his friends and bowling. His family misses everything about him. They miss his beautiful smile, “I love you’s” and physical presence. They share his story because they don’t want his legacy to be forgotten and to teach others all they have learned.
Deno Wooldridge
Deno was only 18 when he died after being shot on his grandmother’s porch in Riverdale, IL. Deno enjoyed playing video games, skating, hanging out with friends and family, cracking jokes, shopping and singing. His family misses his infectious laughter and kisses. They share his story to bring hope to other parents that have lost children to gun violence. They want these parents to know that victims’ legacies will continue to live on.
Ricky Pike
Ricky was 24-years-old when he was shot in Chicago. He loved to travel, play football and basketball, and cook. He even dreamed of becoming a personal chef for sports stars. Ricky also enjoyed collecting t-shirts and sneakers. His family misses his presence, smile, jokes and self-assurance. They tell his story to pass on his legacy and protect others from senseless gun violence.
Aliyah Shell
Aliyah was only 6 years old when she was gunned down in front of her home in Chicago, IL. Aliyah loved to color, dance, and play with her cousins. She also had just started to play basketball. Her family misses her smile, voice, hugs, kindness and love. They share her story because they want gun laws passed to protect not only their community, but others as well.
Eric Williams
Eric Williams was 25 years old when he was shot and killed. Eric enjoyed rapping, carpentry and making things with his hands in general. From the conversations they had with him to his thoughtful, amazing birthday cards, his family misses Eric so much. They also miss watching him raise his daughter and son. His family tells his story to serve as the voice that was taken from him. They want others to know that the thousands of gun deaths that have plagued communities are totally senseless. The family believes gun violence should be both a public health and community issue. They know that gun violence can and will be prevented.
Christopher Andrew "Drew" Leinonen
Christopher was 32 years old when he was killed in the mass shooting in Orlando, FL. He was a mental health therapist with a Clinical Psychology Master’s Degree who was passionate about vintage movies, dancing, music, working out, Star Wars and comic books. His family misses having conversations with him about anything and everything. They miss hearing his perspective, words and voice. They share his story, so people can change the world to make it a safer place. They also want people to know that these deaths are preventable.
Lino Diaz
Lino was 30 when he was shot in his car, while pulling out of his garage to go to work. Following three surgeries and a coma, he passed away. Lino was passionate about collecting sports memorabilia, cooking and raising his two sons, Edwin and Carmelo. Lino was a superhero to his children and was even the coach of their Little League team. His family misses his smile, tight hugs, laughter, jokes, kindness and love. They tell his story to let the world know the wonderful person Lino was.
Carmen Schentrup
Carmen was 16 when she was murdered at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, FL during her 4th period class. She loved playing the piano and violin, singing in the church choir, reading, Marvel and Star Wars movies, comedy and mystery TV shows, horseback riding, travelling and being with friends. She dreamed of graduating high school with honors, going to prom, and attending college to become a medical scientist to find a cure for ALS. Her family misses everything about her. They share her story because Americans should not have to worry whether or not loved ones will return home from school each day. They believe gun violence needs to end.
Chris Hixon
Chris was 49 when he was killed in the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. He was passionate about anything having to do with sports, adventure and travelling with his family. He was also a great coach, mentor and confidant to many students throughout his career. He was a person students could go to if they needed lunch money, school supplies or just to talk. His family misses talking to him and planning future adventures together. They tell his story, so people remember who Chris was and the impact he made when he was alive.
