GREENSBORO, N.C. — Sixty-five murder victims were honored Wednesday but that doesn't take away the hurt several families here in the Triad face every day.
WFMY News 2's Nixon Norman spoke with a mother and father in the crowd who knows the pain of losing a loved one all too well.
Don and Lynn Massenburg lost their son to gun violence on November 27, 2021. Now, they stand in solidarity by honoring the 65 victims who have lost their lives this year in Greensboro at Wednesday's vigil.
"We know the pain that we felt," The Massenburg's said.
Their son, Lyndon Massenburg died at the age of 27 in Greensboro. His parents said it's important to advocate against violence in our community by sharing his story.
"He was possibly in a robbery. He was sitting in his car and somebody came up and shot him. He had his door open and someone came up on him," Don Massenburg said.
His murder case is still unsolved. His parents urge anyone with any information to call Greensboro Crime Stoppers at (336) 373-1000.
"Every time we see, or hear of a murder, our memory of his loss comes back," Don Massenburg said.
Greensboro's Deputy Chief Renae Sigmon was also in attendance. She said it's important to keep the names and stories of the victims alive.
"The vigil is a start. It's an impact full event, but what can we now do as a community to stop this trend and change things," Sigmon said.
Deputy Chief Sigmon said being aware of your surroundings is crucial. She encouraged people to look out for heated arguments, threats of violence in-person or online, and mention of the use of a weapon.
"If you have a concern that something is about to happen, please call 911. Let us get there before something happens and try to de-escalate the situation before we have to add another name and face to all these signs behind us."
"It's not worth it to kill someone and then you end up behind bars, prison and jail is no place for anyone," Don Massenburg said.
Not only are the victim's families affected, Deputy Chief Sigmon said every time a law enforcement officer responds to a violent crime, it leaves a lasting mental impact.