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Marcela FrancoAmerican woman, victim of Santa Monica shooter
Date of Birth: 01.01.1987
Country:  USA |
Content:
- The Tragedy of Santa Monica
- A Rampage Begins
- College Mourns
- A Path of Destruction
- A Deadly Confrontation
- Confrontation with Police
- Presidential Visit
The Tragedy of Santa Monica
Families Mourn Loss of Father and DaughterOn June 7, 2013, tragedy struck Santa Monica College when 26-year-old Maricela Franco and her 68-year-old father, Carlos, became victims of a senseless shooting. The pair were driving to the college, where Carlos was a beloved custodian and Maricela had recently enrolled in summer courses.
A Rampage Begins
The shooter, 23-year-old John Zawahri, opened fire on their vehicle, killing Carlos instantly. The car careened into a wall, leaving Maricela critically injured. She was rushed to Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, but despite valiant efforts, she succumbed to her injuries two days later.
College Mourns
Santa Monica College President Chui L. Tsang expressed condolences to the Franco family and announced a memorial service in their honor. The campus remained closed as police investigated the incident, which left dozens wounded.
A Path of Destruction
Prior to arriving at the college, Zawahri had already begun his rampage. He fatally shot two men, believed to be his father, Samir, and brother, Christopher, before setting fire to their home. Zawahri then carjacked a woman and forced her to drive him to the college.
A Deadly Confrontation
As they approached the campus, Zawahri fired on a city bus and a police car. He then targeted the Francos' vehicle. After killing Carlos and wounding Maricela, Zawahri entered the library and opened fire on students. Fortunately, the students were able to escape and barricade themselves in a safe room.
Confrontation with Police
Police responded and engaged Zawahri in a shootout. He was fatally wounded and removed from the library by officers. Investigators estimated that he fired over 70 rounds of ammunition and had more available.
Presidential Visit
Coincidentally, President Barack Obama was visiting Santa Monica for a fundraiser at the time of the shooting. His security detail迅速acted and rerouted his motorcade to a safer location.
