A Fort Wayne woman attending her daughter’s graduation at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum last Friday recalls how a joyful celebration turned chaotic in a matter of seconds.
As families and friends gathered outside to take photos, the woman noticed a sudden disturbance. “Lots and lots of people were taking pictures outside, and next thing you know, we were walking out to our car, and we see a shuffle, look over, see two quick pops and three guys run off,” she said.
Working in the medical field, she quickly sprang into action, offering aid to the shooting victim until police arrived. Another bystander handed her a belt, which she used to tie around the victim’s leg in an effort to slow the bleeding.
Due to safety concerns and the ongoing investigation—the suspects have not yet been arrested—she requested to remain anonymous.
Concerns About Security
Reflecting on the incident, the woman expressed deep concern about the lack of security at the venue. “Security at these bigger facilities should be the number one priority, especially when they’re hosting thousands and thousands of people, where they have kids,” she said. “There were no metal detectors, and even on the way out, there was barely any security out in the parking lot, so it’s no wonder that something like this happened.”
Despite the trauma, she finds some solace in the victim’s condition, who was taken to the hospital in fair condition.
A Hopeful Message to Graduates
The shooting casts a shadow over what should have been a day of celebration. “It’s a shame that all the graduates, including my daughter, will associate their celebration with an act of violence,” she said.
Still, her message to the Class of 2025 is one of hope and resilience: “I just hope that the Class of 2025 from Wayne High School doesn’t let this affect their future. They’re bright, they’re smart, they’ve worked hard, and they deserve to know that they’re going to be safe.”
