Clementa Pinckney, 41
Mr Pinckney was a 1995 graduate of Allen University who is described as a legend and icon. He was a South Carolina state Senator and an advocate for police reform. The Democratic politician pushed for police officers to wear body cameras.
Tywanza Sanders
Mr Sanders was also a graduate of Allen University in South Carolina. Mr Sanders received his Business Administration degree in 2014. The university issued a statement saying that Mr Sanders was a well-known student who was committed to his studies.
“He presented a warm and helpful spirit as he interacted with his colleagues. Mr Sanders was participating in the Bible Study session at Mother Emanuel church at the time of the shooting.”
Cynthia Hurd
Ms Hurd, a library manager at St. Andrews Regional Library, was also identified as one of the victims.
She worked with the Charleston County Public Library 31 years, serving as branch manager of the John L. Dart Branch from 1990-2011 before becoming manager of the St. Andrews Regional Library.
“Charleston County Public Library is devastated by the senseless shootings Wednesday night at Mother Emanuel AME Church in downtown Charleston that took the lives of nine members of our community, including one of our own – St. Andrews Regional Library Manager Cynthia Hurd. Cynthia was a tireless servant of the community who spent her life helping residents, making sure they had every opportunity for an education and personal growth.”
All 16 public libraries in Charleston County will be closed today in her honor.
Sharonda Coleman-Singleton
Ms Coleman-Singleton was a high school track coach and pastor at the Emanuel AME Church. Her son Chris wrote a heartbreaking message on Instagram Thursday afternoon.
“In this picture there are two new Angels in the sky. One of them happens to be my mommy. It’s funny how I always told you that you went to church too much. You would laugh it off and say, ‘Boy you can never have too much of the Lord,’” he wrote.
“You were a better mother than I could have ever asked for. This has truly broken my heart in every way possible, but I know I have to stay strong for my little brother and sister. I thank everyone for your prayers and thoughts, but I’m positive this strong woman is in a better place now. Keep my family in your prayers as we continue with this horrid grieving process.’
This post will be updated as more information becomes available.
http://www.independent.co.uk/
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