Currents News Staff
One of Judaism’s holiest days of the year was shattered by violence. Now a California community is forced to say goodbye to the victim of Saturday’s synagogue shooting.
A vigil was held Sunday evening in Poway, California to remember Lori Kaye, who was fatally shot during Passover celebrations Saturday. Her funeral is scheduled for Monday afternoon.
“It’s really hard for us that we lose this type of person in our community. I hope that community will stay strong and pick up the pieces,” said Israel Dahan, the father of a survivor.
Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein spoke to Kaye moments before shots were fired.
“This building that we built is supposed to be full of love. This building that we built was supposed to be to be able to share highness, a love for each other,” said Goldstein.
President Trump called Goldstein on Sunday. The rabbi says they talked for 10 to 15 minutes, with the President offering condolences on behalf of the country.
“He spoke to me like a friend, like a colleague. He spoke to me like he felt for me for my anguish and pain,” added Goldstein.
The rabbi and two others were injured Saturday, including eight-year-old Noya Dahan.
“The world isn’t supposed to be like this. It’s supposed to be peaceful and quiet and not like wars and bad stuff,” said Dahan.
The shooting suspect, 19-year-old John Earnest, was booked Sunday on one count of first-degree murder and three counts of attempted murder in the first degree.
The San Diego authorities say there is no sign that Earnest was involved with an organized group.
Police have not confirmed a motive for Saturday’s rampage, but prior to the shooting an anti-Semitic open letter written by a person claiming to be Earnest was posted on an online message board.