Emotional vigil for victim of mass shooting, family searches for justice

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. ( WIAT ) – A raw and emotional vigil was held Friday night for 21-year-old Anitra Holloman, one of four people killed in last Saturday’s mass shooting in Birmingham’s Five Points South neighborhood.

“God, and if anybody is here under the sound of my voice, put your guns down. Revenge is not the way,” Sherita Clark with Refreshing Our Communities said.

Holloman’s family and friends say they’re still searching for justice and answers nearly a week later. Dozens of people came to Railroad Park despite the rain, just going to show how loved Holloman was and how strong the support system behind her family is.

“Lord, give her strength. Give her wisdom. God, and give her peace every day,” Clark prayed.

Holloman’s family and friends crowded around the 21-year-old’s mother, Candance Kemp, Friday night. Kemp says family was everything to her daughter.

“I would have never in my life thought this would happen to ReeRee, like never. She ain’t that type of person and I just wish that I could’ve had another hug with my baby, if I would’ve just called her that night just to say something,” Kemp said. “Just anything.”

Holloman’s daughter will grow up having lost both of her parents to gun violence.

“She got so many grandparents. They are going to make sure that Anitra is never forgotten,” Kemp said. “Between her family and her dad’s family, we’re going to make sure she always remembers both of her parents.”

Everyone at the vigil had one resounding plea.

“Somebody knows more than what they’re telling. And if you know something, you need to say something,” Clark said. “I am sick and tired of us crying after the fact.”

Another vigil will be held Saturday morning outside the Hush Lounge, where the shooting happened. It’s scheduled to begin at 9 a.m.

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