On the solemn occasion of the first anniversary of the tragic events of May 6, 2023, a lasting tribute was revealed at the Allen Premium Outlets. The monument stands in memory of the lives lost.
The memorial is positioned within the northwest interior section of the outlet mall, adjacent to the flagpoles and communal seating, near West Elm. Crafted from hand-painted stainless steel, it weighs approximately 1,800 pounds, according to WFAA.
In tribute to the eight individuals tragically lost in the shooting, the memorial features eight wind chimes. Among those remembered are the Cho family: Kyu, Cindy, and their 3-year-old son, James; sisters Daniela Mendoza, aged 11, and Sofia Mendoza, aged 8; Christian LaCour, aged 20; Aishwarya Thatikonda, aged 27; and Elio Cumana-Rivas, aged 32.
A black plaque bearing the inscription "Always Remembered, May 6th, 2023" rests within the flower bed at the memorial's base. A permanent bronze plaque will eventually replace the current temporary one. Placzek Studios conceptualized the design for the memorial sculpture, which was then crafted by artist Matthew Placzek.
To honor those who assisted victims and families, grants will be disbursed to facilitate ongoing and extended recovery services, catering to mental health, grief and trauma support. Over $500,000 was contributed by over 650 individuals, families and businesses to the Support for Allen Fund managed by the Communities Foundation of Texas.
Included in the fund disbursement was LifePath Systems, which received $125,000 in grants. Following the shooting, LifePath staff visited each store when they reopened on May 31, offering support to employees. They now run a 24/7 support hotline and operate the Center for Healing, staffed with licensed therapists and crisis counselors. They collaborate with school districts to ensure parents and students are aware of available resources.
“We are continuing to make grants from the fund in support of those impacted, especially in terms of mental health support for Allen community members and first responders through LifePath Systems and the Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute,” said Communities Foundation of Texas’ President and CEO Wayne White. “The one-year mark of an unspeakable tragedy like this often requires additional and increased mental health support in the days, weeks and months ahead.”
For a full list of fund recipients, visit the link here.
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