Thousands participate in Vegas Strong 5K in remembrance of those killed on 1 October

LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Wednesday marks eight years since the 1 October attack. On that night, a gunman opened fire at the Route 91 Harvest Music Festival, killing 58 people and injuring hundreds more. On Sunday morning, the community came together once again in support of the victims, survivors, and first responders.

“As you can see, there’s a probably a couple thousand people here supporting and honoring the victims,” Lt. Ryan Willman with UNLV’s University Police Department said.

A sea of black and yellow flooded the streets of downtown Las Vegas. Many runners carried the names of those lost.

“When we chose the name, we looked them up to find out who are we supporting. It brought tears to my eyes,” Las Vegas resident Dana Gutierrez said.

She chose to honor Carrie Barnette – a 34-year-old Disney employee from California. She was shot once in the chest with a friend by her side. Her husband, Carlos Gutierrez, ran for Jordan McIldoon, a Canadian, just days away from his 24th birthday. He died in the arms of first responders as his girlfriend was pulled to safety.

Remembering their stories brought back the pain and heartbreak of that day.

“Just sadness and loss and heartbreak,” Dana Gutierrez said.

“It caused a lot of fear. I had to sit down. I started crying because I realized it was really a horrible, horrible thing to happen not only our residents but people that are visiting us,” Carlos Gutierrez said while fighting back tears.

Amanda Roswell attended the remembrance running event with her daughter, Emma.

“The thing that’s been the most impactful is that people are trying to go out and be a part of the community and being faced with the risk that things wouldn’t be safe is devastating,” she said.

But through grief, one message rises above.

“The 1 October event doesn’t define Las Vegas,” Willman said. “What defines Las Vegas is our ability to be resilient, to move on, to honor the victims, but to be strong and move forward.”

“We love Vegas!” said Amanda and Emma Roswell.

On Wednesday, Clark County will host its annual 1 October Sunrise Remembrance Ceremony at 7:30 a.m. at the amphitheater in downtown Las Vegas. Later that evening, the city of Las Vegas will also hold its annual remembrance ceremony at 10:05 p.m. at the Healing Garden.

Sponsors of Sunday’s race include 8 News Now, Sanderson Plumbing, Rachel’s Kitchen, Plus Credit Union, Smashed Bean and more.