Richard Brookes reflected on the night of the shooting, saying, "We were eating outside, and I was talking to our friends about how we have to enjoy every moment of life. Right after we said that, I felt an excruciating pain in my back and had no idea what was going on." This statement not only captures his immediate experience but also adds a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.
Brookes described the chaotic scene stating, "There were sparks, like fireworks--it was like a movie." His description paints a vivid image of the violence that erupted, highlighting the shock and confusion of the situation, which turned a festive gathering into a traumatic event in an instant.
Brookes expressed a sense of concern for the community after the arrest of suspects, saying, "I didn't feel any sense of vengeance or wanting to punish. I just felt really concerned that there were dangerous people in the community who needed to be taken off the streets until things got better for them." This reflects his compassionate outlook towards addressing the underlying issues of gang violence.
Elizabeth Brookes, his wife, emphasized their positive mindset stating, "We try to look forward to the days that we have and the time we have, not the time we've lost." This encapsulates their resilience and gratitude despite the trauma they experienced, focusing on the importance of remaining hopeful and present.
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