Candlelight Vigils Held Monday as Part of Statewide Event For Parkland Victims

Statewide vigils took place Monday night, organized by the Florida Parent Teacher Association, in remembrance of Parkland school tragedy victims.

At each event, 17 names were read outloud - each one a victim of the tragic event last Wednesday at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School where over two dozen students and staff were shot when a former student, Nikolas Cruz, allegedly entered the school and opened fire.

Four vigils took place in Broward County and four in Miami-Dade, with students arriving to share their stories and sorrow.

"We didn't know how many shooters there were. We didn't know how many kids were dead," said Alex Martinez, a senior at Douglas High School. "We didn't know how many teachers were dead. I didn't know where any of my friends were."

Broward County Public Schools said it continues to provide services, including counseling, health care assistance and travel assistance, for affected families with the aid of the American Red Cross, the government and community agencies.

"Our hearts remain with the victims and families affected by the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School tragedy, as our community copes with the aftermath and recovery process from this senseless act of violence," BCPS said in a statement. "Please keep the Marjory Stoneman Douglas community in your thoughts and prayers."

The Family Assistance Center, which remains open until Friday night, is located at the Parkland Recreational and Enrichment Center at 10559 Trails End.

The Broward Education Foundation established a GoFundMe page to help victims and their families. 

The PTA said it is the largest volunteer child advocacy association in the United States that "reminds our country of its obligations to children and provides parents and families with a powerful voice to speak on behalf of every child."