LAFAYETTE, La. (NEWS 15) — The family of Martha Odom, the innocent victim killed in the shooting at the Mall of Louisiana in Baton Rouge, issued a statement on Tuesday, April 28.
“Our family is devastated by the loss of our beloved firstborn daughter Martha. Full of light, love and joy, Martha’s kindness touched everyone who knew her—classmates, teammates, fellow dancers, family and friends. We are comforted by this and know that Martha’s spirit, strength and grace have left a lasting and meaningful impact on the world. We are grateful for the outpouring of concern and support we have received from our community in Lafayette and across the country. Such kind words and gestures have helped us endure a horrific and painful loss no family should experience. We remain profoundly heartbroken and unprepared to speak further and kindly ask for privacy as we continue to process our grief. For those wishing to honor Martha’s life and legacy, donations may be made to The Martha Odom Legacy of Joyful Grace in Motion fund at the Community Foundation of Acadiana.”
A candlelight vigil was held at the Mall of Louisiana on Monday to honor Odom, 17, and the surviving victims of the mass shooting. Odom was a senior at Ascension Episcopal School in Youngsville. She was shot to death in the mall’s food court. A memorial for Odom was set up steps away from where she died. Community members stopped by to pay their respects and mourn her death…