Candlelight vigil held for victims of Westerly Shooting

ABC6 News

By: Ellie Romano

Email: ERomano@ABC6.com

Twitter: @ERomano

WESTERLY, R.I. (WLNE) – A candlelight vigil was held Friday night at Christ Episcopal Church in Westerly for the victims and first responders of Thursday’s deadly shooting at Babcock Village.

Christ Church was one of the many buildings that went on lockdown immediately following the shooting.

“While our brave Westerly and Stonington Police were dealing with the dangerous situation of an active shooter in Westerly, Seven of us at Christ Church huddled together, reading the psalms and praying for our community’s well being while in lockdown,” said Reverend Sunil Chandy. “It felt like the right thing to do.”

One of the church’s members, 47-year-old Julie Cardinal, was working at Babcock Village at the time of the shooting. She was shot and killed by the gunman.

“Julie was a wonderful lady filled with great love and dedication for the community,” said Rev. Chandy.

Congressmen David Cicilline and Jim Langevin attended the vigil, along with lieutenant governor Daniel McKee.

“It’s horrible. You’re heart breaks for the family. For this community,” said Cicilline.

Cardinal leaves behind four children, two sons, and two daughters. Her daughters tell ABC6 they are overwhelmed by the community’s support.

“She was great. She deserved all the love that she’s getting,” said Cardinal’s daughter Hannah Bettencourt.

Cardinal’s family remembers her as the life of the party.

“She wanted to go out with a bang and this is exactly it,” said Bettencourt.

“She wanted to be famous,” added Cardinal’s other daughter, Morgan Bettencourt.

Two other people were shot Thursday. 88-year-old Robin Moss of Cranston, and 66-year-old Donna Thornley of Westerly. 

At last check, Thornley, a resident of Babcock Village is in stable condition, and Moss, a Manager of Babcock Village remains in critical condition.
 
The shooter, who ultimately committed suicide, was identified as 66-year-old Joseph Giachello. He was a resident of the complex.
 
Rev. Chandy said the incident will change the community forever, but they will get through this.
 
“Sometimes it’s dark before the light comes out. But it will come out,” said Chandy.
 
Chandy said down the line the church will offer counseling to those who need it.
 

©WLNE-TV/ABC6 2019

Related