Witnesses Recall Memories of Norris Hall Shootings
by Omar Maglalang and Tricia SangalangNews Staff Writers
April 16, 2007
A typical morning in Norris Hall is pretty quiet for the housekeepers who work there. Most classes do not start until 9 a.m., and various classes from German to Engineering are held there every day.
But on this one day in April, when wind gusts roared like a snowstorm in January, a gunman shattered the quiet nature of the quaint building, which like many at Virginia Tech is constructed with the distinctive “Hokie Stone.”
Ruiqi Zhang, a junior computer engineering major, experienced the incident first hand in his class on the second floor of Norris.
“A student rushed in and told everybody to get down,” said Zhang. “We put a table against the door and when the gunman tried to shoulder his way in and when he saw that he couldn’t, he put two shots through the door.
“It was the scariest moment of my life.”
Pam Tickle, who works as a housekeeper in Norris, was moving through another quiet, easy morning at her post in the second floor of Norris when a little after 9:30 a.m., she heard numerous gunshots coming from the hallway.
“We weren’t quite sure what happened at first,” said Tickle. “We didn’t hear anybody screaming, but we heard lots of shots.”
Gene Cole, a building worker from the Pulaski County community of Belspring, had heard the shots and was on his way to look for Tickle, when he came around a corner on the second floor of Norris and saw a body on the floor.
“Across the hall, I caught sight of the shooter, and he loaded his gun at me,” said Cole. “I ran down the steps to get out of the there.”
Cole, who has worked for more than 20 years at Virginia Tech, saw bloodied hallways and also a hint of what the suspect looked like. Cole noted that the man had a hat on and was wielding a black automatic handgun.
Meanwhile, Tickle and several Virginia Tech students had rushed to the student lounge on the second floor, locked the door, and waited for police officers to evacuate them.
Their wait would last almost two hours, an anxiety-filled two hours.
“We peeked out the door one time, but more shots were fired,” said Tickle. “We stayed in there not knowing what happened. When we heard police out in the hallway after 11, we let them in. They body searched us, and led us away to evacuate from the building.”
Tickle did feel a sense of relief when a little after 10 a.m., she heard an announcer on the radio who said, “Shooter’s down!”
Police led Tickle and students in the lounge to Randolph Hall, behind Norris, after the gunman was pronounced dead, and they stayed there until police cleared the area.
“I thank God because he was watching me today,” said Tickle.
Tickle has worked for about three years as a housekeeper in Norris. She said she enjoyed the hustle and bustle of students and professors there. She particularly liked the quiet atmosphere and the neat look of the hallways.
By mid-afternoon, however, yellow caution tape lined the entire perimeter of Norris and the academic buildings around it.
By afternoon, the building was Virginia Tech’s own ground zero of sorrow, the bed of yellow tulips in front of the building tossed in the stiff wind, as evidence technicians and other officers came and went from a building that will surely live in infamy. An abandoned red backpack sat next to the entrance and bicycles were also left in a rack nearby, signs of the quiet, carefree student life so terribly shattered.
That student routine and quiet atmosphere was now obliterated as police cars, ambulances, SWAT teams, and investigators mulled about the crime scene.
The stern faces of the evidence collection team and other huddled-up officers in their bulletproof vests seemed stunned at the sight of what had happened in Norris.
Officers gathered outside of the academic building to deal with the particulars of the crime scene while others stood to guard the perimeter with shotguns.
Nick Pheil, an accounting and information systems major, had an exam on the third floor of Norris in the morning. He finished and on his way back to his residence he noticed police officers everywhere. Like many Tech students, he watched and listened as the news worsened by the minute.
“I’m in a state of shock,” said Pheil later. “It seemed low-key and contained earlier when they reported one dead, several wounded, but things escalated very quickly when the numbers shot to 17 and then 22 dead. I’m still in a state of shock.”
On one of the chilliest days ever on record this month in Blacksburg, the site of Norris Hall will be remembered for the sight of yellow tape lined around its perimeter, blowing in the cold wind, a wind that will break hearts for as long as hearts can be broken.
Comments (366)
Thank you, young journalists for your intimate and informative posts during this time of terrible confusion and grief. We have you in our hearts.
Posted by Kate X | April 16, 2007 4:52 PMGreat coverage. You do a fine job of covering a terrible situation with "heart." Keep up the good work. I am glad I found Planet Blacksburg...
Posted by Patty | April 16, 2007 5:38 PMThank you for the inside look to this terrible tragedy.
Posted by michelle | April 16, 2007 5:49 PMNice job, Planet Blacksburg. It's comforting to read some news coverage about this horrific event from a couple of our own hokies. May God Bless
Posted by Kalyn | April 16, 2007 6:00 PMMy heart and my prayers go out to all of you!
Posted by Chris | April 16, 2007 6:02 PMWhat is the shooter's name?
Posted by Blomberg | April 16, 2007 6:19 PMGod bless all of you on this blackest of days...
Posted by Chris | April 16, 2007 6:33 PMWe in the UK are thinking of you all -
from Essex, England
My prayers go out to Hokie nation and to the Blacksburg community.
Posted by Jose | April 16, 2007 6:38 PMMy thoughts and prayers to all of you - I can't even imagine what you are going through. It is all beyond belief.
Posted by Maria | April 16, 2007 6:52 PMMy husband and I send our prayers and condolences to everyone at Virginia Tech. May hope and healing begin soon, and peace prevail.
It is relieving to have young bloggers on scene providing information that the mainstream media cannot. Thank you.
Steve & Karen
Posted by northofdenali | April 16, 2007 6:54 PMFairbanks, Alaska
My heart is breaking for all my neighbors in Blacksburg and on techs campus My prayers are for all of us here
Posted by kathy | April 16, 2007 7:03 PMI live in Chicago and have been glued to the news all day. A local station mentioned the wonderful coversage on your site. My heart goes out to you all. Keep up the good reporting job!
Posted by Laura | April 16, 2007 7:04 PMYou are all in my thoughts and prayers!
Posted by Janice | April 16, 2007 7:05 PMThis has sent a shock around the world for all of us with children at school and how some people have a total disreguard to our precious life. It brings back the Dumblane massacre. I pray for you all tonight. Come together and talk , be strong and take it one day at a time.
Posted by Gillian from England | April 16, 2007 7:08 PMI feel very sorry for those parents who lost their love ones that's really a sad thing
Posted by Sabrina Cassetana | April 16, 2007 7:08 PMYou are all in our hearts and thoughts today.
Posted by JG Russell | April 16, 2007 7:11 PMCondolences from Canada.
Posted by Allie | April 16, 2007 7:13 PMHi,
I am a portuguese journalist and we are covering the incidente at VT. This is a nice site, I specialy like this report.
I wonder if you or anyone who is reading this coment has a video or a photo of the moments lived this moornig in VT.
If so please contact me to: pdias@mediacapital.pt
Thank you,
Pedro Sales Dias
Posted by Pedro Sales Dias | April 16, 2007 7:32 PMAll of Virginia Tech and Blacksburg are in my prayers
Posted by michelle from madison,nc | April 16, 2007 7:34 PMjmu is sending its prayers to our family at tech. much love for you guys.
Posted by Rebekah | April 16, 2007 7:37 PMhow sad very tragic
Posted by jericho | April 16, 2007 7:49 PMlaura spaventa its good that ur alright we've all been watching you on tv and looking for you online cya
Posted by joe spaventa | April 16, 2007 8:25 PMMy prayers and support are with you guys.
Lino from Caracas Venezuela
Posted by Lino from Venezuela | April 16, 2007 8:35 PMMy heart goes out to the families that lost their loved ones today and my prayers to the ones that are hurt. I am the mother of and only child in college, I am totally devastated by this.
Posted by Idania | April 16, 2007 8:54 PMPlease know that my thoughts are with you. I have a kid in college at Rutgers university and thought how this could just happen anywhere. Please know that we are thinking of you
Posted by Janice Lester | April 16, 2007 8:58 PMMy heart is breaking for the families of those who had their lives taken away so tragically.
Debbie Halley from Romeoville, Illinois
Posted by Debbie Halley | April 16, 2007 8:59 PMMy heart breaks for all of you... there will be prayers going up for you here in Missouri...
Posted by Mindy in Cape Girardeau, MO | April 16, 2007 9:17 PMI lived in West AJ floor 4 for 3 years. I love the VT campus and am so sad this happened to such a peaceful place. You are in our prayers. I join you in heartbreak. Somehow please pick up and don't let evil take over the life there.
Posted by Jacqui | April 16, 2007 9:21 PMGod Bless from Texas
Posted by Marcia | April 16, 2007 9:38 PMThis was a terrible tragedy to happen to so many good people. What kind of person could really do this? But, I appreciate all you have done to inform people. I will be praying for everyone at this fine university and for their families.
Posted by Anonymous | April 16, 2007 9:40 PMi`m very Sory for all your all your losses my thought and prayers are with all of you.
Posted by DaveIn Winnipeg,Canada | April 16, 2007 9:40 PMThis was a terrible tragedy to happen to so many good people. What kind of person could really do this? But, I appreciate all you have done to inform people. I will be praying for everyone at this fine university and for their families.
Posted by Anonymous | April 16, 2007 9:40 PMI just wanted to say thank you for posting this insight on the tragedy in Blacksburg today. You are all in my thoughts and prayers, and know everyone is there with you in spirit.
Posted by Bianca | April 16, 2007 9:41 PMYou are all in my thoughts and prayers. I cannot imagine what it is like going through such a traumatic experience.
Posted by Jan in Mississippi | April 16, 2007 9:42 PMYou are all in my thoughts and prayers. I cannot imagine what it is like going through such a traumatic experience.
Posted by Jan in Mississippi | April 16, 2007 9:43 PMMy heart goes out to you, my fellow Hoke's. Remembering the lovely spring days, walking the campus, from here to there, it is hard to believe that a tragedy such as this has occurred. I use to skate the steps right at the entrance to Norris Hall, back in the day. I will Pray for and remember the people that lost their lives today, but I will also remember the good times. In time, if you try, the good times will come back. My prayers go out to the victims and the families (I wish I could give you all hugs). And a speedy recovery to all of those that were injured in any way today. God Bless.
Posted by Eric Sherrell | April 16, 2007 9:43 PMThank you for your account of this pointless atrocity. I cant imagine the pain you are all going through. Condolence's from British Columbia.
Posted by James | April 16, 2007 9:43 PMI said a prayer today for the entire Virginia Tech community. It broke my heart to hear the news and my wish is that God will comfort the families of the victims and give peace to the students, faculty and staff who remain on the campus. I have yet to speak with my Hokie alumni friends or family but know that this must being weighing just as heavily on their minds and hearts. My sympathy from NC...
Posted by Courtney | April 16, 2007 9:43 PMGod Bless all of you that had to experience such a tragedy. You will prevail, stay strong you are in America's hearts.
Posted by Nina | April 16, 2007 9:43 PMMy prayers are with all of you on Planet Blacksburg. A UVA parent
Posted by Barbara | April 16, 2007 9:44 PMi lived in west pritchard right next to west AJ my freshman year and also had a few classes in norris...even 3000 miles away and more than 10 years removed from blacksburg, i am shaken by this. there are no words to express my sympathy and sadness. all of you that were affected by this are in my thoughts.
Posted by bill, san diego | April 16, 2007 9:48 PMFirst, I just want to add my condolences along with all those who have posted before me. Blessed be all those who suffered loss today.
Secondly, I saw Laura Spaventa on TV and she mentioned this site. As a fellow journalist, I want to commend you all at PlanetBlacksburg for the great reporting you have done today. Keep up the solid work.
Peace and Love from Atlanta.
Posted by joshua | April 16, 2007 9:51 PMmy heart goes out to all of you there at va. tech on this sad and senseless day..my thoughts and prayers are with each and everyone of you...hang in there and GOD will take care of all of you...
Posted by wendy t. | April 16, 2007 9:51 PMmy heart goes out to all of you there at va. tech on this sad and senseless day..my thoughts and prayers are with each and everyone of you...hang in there and GOD will take care of all of you...
Posted by wendy t. | April 16, 2007 9:51 PMFirst, I just want to add my condolences along with all those who have posted before me. Blessed be all those who suffered loss today.
Secondly, I saw Laura Spaventa on TV and she mentioned this site. As a fellow journalist, I want to commend you all at PlanetBlacksburg for the great reporting you have done today. Keep up the solid work.
Peace and Love from Atlanta.
Posted by joshua | April 16, 2007 9:51 PMI can not even begin to imagine what you all are going through. you all are in my thoughts and prayers. University of Kentucky morns with you.
Posted by Ally | April 16, 2007 9:51 PMI can not even begin to imagine what you all are going through. you all are in my thoughts and prayers. University of Kentucky morns with you.
Posted by Ally | April 16, 2007 9:52 PMmy heart goes out to all of you there at va. tech on this sad and senseless day..my thoughts and prayers are with each and everyone of you...hang in there and GOD will take care of all of you...
Posted by wendy t. | April 16, 2007 9:52 PMCondolences from Colorado
Posted by Alice Tully-Hall | April 16, 2007 9:52 PMmy heart goes out to all of you there at va. tech on this sad and senseless day..my thoughts and prayers are with each and everyone of you...hang in there and GOD will take care of all of you...
Posted by wendy t. | April 16, 2007 9:53 PMThe students, faculty and alumni from the Southeastern Conference have the Hokie nation in our thoughts and prayers. God speed with your healing!
Posted by John | April 16, 2007 9:53 PMWe just wanted to let you know,you are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Posted by Barry and Angie in Cumberland,MD | April 16, 2007 9:53 PMSo sorry to hear of this tragic event that took place on your campus. I work at our local high school and thought, My God, this can happen anywhere. Bless you all. These are troubled times.
Posted by Ann from Ithaca, NY | April 16, 2007 9:53 PMMy heart is breaking for all those victims and their families. Prayers & condolences to all.
Posted by cj Stiles | April 16, 2007 9:54 PMcj from Manchester,MD
One of my sisters is a Hokie...Take care of yourselves.
hugs from Kentucky
Posted by Cathy | April 16, 2007 9:55 PMOne of my sisters is a Hokie...Take care of yourselves.
hugs from Kentucky
Posted by Cathy | April 16, 2007 9:56 PMMy thoughts & prayers are with you during this tragic time, may the time spent with your friends, family and coworkers help you with the healing process. I have 2 daughters attending college and as a parent my heart goes out to all of you. Peace
Posted by Wendy, NJ | April 16, 2007 9:57 PMOne of my sisters is a Hokie...Take care of yourselves.
hugs from Kentucky
Posted by Cathy | April 16, 2007 9:57 PMOne of my sisters is a Hokie...Take care of yourselves.
hugs from Kentucky
Posted by Cathy | April 16, 2007 9:58 PMMy thoughts & prayers are with you during this tragic time, may the time spent with your friends, family and coworkers help you with the healing process. I have 2 daughters attending college and as a parent my heart goes out to all of you. Peace
Posted by Wendy, NJ | April 16, 2007 9:58 PMMay God be with you.
Posted by William | April 16, 2007 9:59 PMMay God be with you.
Posted by William | April 16, 2007 10:00 PMMy prayers are with you, your families, and your community. Know that you are not grieving alone our nation and the rest of the world is grieving with you and praying for you. May GOD give you peace during this time of great sorrow and confusion. Your innocent will not be forgotten. My heart is heavy with sadness for all of you. GOD bless all of you.
Posted by crystal, Auburn,PA | April 16, 2007 10:05 PMJMU is praying for all of our friends in the VT community
Posted by Matt | April 16, 2007 10:06 PMThis tragic event touches everyone, and especially those of us in Austin, Texas, where our beloved Univ. of Texas tower still carries bad memories. I appreciate your work on this site. You are all in our prayers.
Posted by Daphne | April 16, 2007 10:07 PMI am deeply saddened by the events at your great school, VT. As a parent of 3 college students my heart cries for the families that have lost their precious children. At times like this there are no answers. Let God or your higher power into your lives. The grieving and the healing must take place. Love & Peace to all.
Posted by Marcus- California | April 16, 2007 10:09 PMDo you have news about the possibillity of 2 different shooters, one at the dorm and one Norris Hall?
Posted by Kim from Norway | April 16, 2007 10:09 PMSave your prayers, they don't work. Nobody's listening. Do something that does: donate blood; send condolences; educate and love your kids and listen to them when they have problems.
Posted by Frank | April 16, 2007 10:10 PMThoughts and prayers with all of the Hokie nation from all of us here in Morgantown. Stay safe down there.
Posted by Derek, WV | April 16, 2007 10:11 PMMy thoughts and prayers are sent to everyone at va tech and to all the families who have been affected by these senseless shootings. May God's love be with you all
Posted by Ros, Australia | April 16, 2007 10:14 PMMy thoughts and prayers are sent to everyone at va tech and to all the families who have been affected by these senseless shootings. May God's love be with you all
Posted by Ros, Australia | April 16, 2007 10:14 PMMay God have mercy on those lost in this senseless tragedy... grieve and console those around you. Then go out and celebrate the that were lost - live life to the fullest, love like there is no tomorrow
Posted by Kevin | April 16, 2007 10:14 PMMy prayers go out to all affected. I am a professor in Canada. Our campuses should be safe homes for our students.
Posted by Greg | April 16, 2007 10:16 PMMy prayers go out to all affected. I am a professor in Canada. Our campuses need to be safe homes for our students.
Posted by Greg | April 16, 2007 10:17 PMOur thoughts and prayers are with you and your families.
Posted by Donna Brown, Arkansas | April 16, 2007 10:18 PMRivalry aside, I send all Hokies best wishes and condolences to the family members of those who have passed on.
Posted by Shanee | April 16, 2007 10:22 PMPraying God's strength and grace for you in this time.
Posted by nikki | April 16, 2007 10:25 PMPrayers of support for your campus, your friends, your families, the greater VT "family" and thanks for keeping the world informed.
Posted by Lori and Jim | April 16, 2007 10:28 PMLori and Jim
Virginia Beach, VA
God bless all of you touched by this horrible event, our hearts and prayers are pounding like drums in the distance calling those souls in need of a place far away from the tragedy, let yourself go during this awful time by letting our pounding hearts and prayers carry you through, we are there for you in this sad, very sad time.
Posted by David in Chicago | April 16, 2007 10:29 PMPrayers of support for your campus, your friends, your families, the greater VT "family" and thanks for keeping the world informed.
Posted by Lori and Jim | April 16, 2007 10:29 PMLori and Jim
Virginia Beach, VA
Prayers of support for your campus, your friends, your families, the greater VT "family" and thanks for keeping the world informed.
Posted by Lori and Jim | April 16, 2007 10:29 PMLori and Jim
Virginia Beach, VA
A senseless deed! It looks like someone goofed in informing students to be on the alert. No hindsight required here. A shooting is a shooting. Precautionary measures would have saved lives, even if it later turned out unneccesary. Maybe, dorm leaders need to alert students under their care by mass sms to be alert.
Posted by Anthony Morris | April 16, 2007 10:31 PMSending out prayers for everyone affected by this nonsensical tragedy. Schools should be safe places of learning, not mass casualty sites.
May peace and grace come to you all.
Posted by themexcellentone in Texas | April 16, 2007 10:31 PMA senseless deed! It looks like someone goofed in informing students to be on the alert. No hindsight required here. A shooting is a shooting. Precautionary measures would have saved lives, even if it later turned out unneccesary. Maybe, dorm leaders need to alert students under their care by mass sms to be alert.
Posted by Anthony Morris | April 16, 2007 10:32 PMA senseless deed! It looks like someone goofed in informing students to be on the alert. No hindsight required here. A shooting is a shooting. Precautionary measures would have saved lives, even if it later turned out unneccesary. Maybe, dorm leaders need to alert students under their care by mass sms to be alert.
Posted by Anthony Morris | April 16, 2007 10:33 PMI was a freshman at Florida State when the Rollings murder's happend at nearby UF in Gainesville. The news today brought back chilling memories of that early fall week in '89 and to the sniper terror here in Northern VA from a few years ago.
Together, you will get beyond this. Hold on together and love your fellow man. My thoughts are with all of you tonight.
Posted by Andrew | April 16, 2007 10:34 PMGod bless all of you touched by this horrible event, our hearts and prayers are pounding like drums in the distance calling those souls in need of a place far away from the tragedy, let yourself go during this awful time by letting our pounding hearts and prayers carry you through, we are there for you in this sad, very sad time.
Posted by David in Chicagoland | April 16, 2007 10:35 PMMy heart is with everyone at Tech.
Stacy, B.Arch. '95
Posted by Stacy | April 16, 2007 10:36 PMMy heart is with everyone at Tech.
Stacy, B.Arch. '95
Posted by Stacy | April 16, 2007 10:38 PMHold tightly to one another in the days ahead. Know that an entire nation and world is grieving with you, and praying for you to feel peace again soon. Your grace and courage is an inspiration.
Posted by friends in Seattle | April 16, 2007 10:39 PMHold tightly to one another in the days ahead. Know that an entire nation and world is grieving with you, and praying for you to feel peace again soon. Your grace and courage is an inspiration.
Posted by friends in Seattle | April 16, 2007 10:39 PMMy thoughts and prayers are with you all at this horrible time. Tragedies like this should never happen.
Posted by Clayton, NC | April 16, 2007 10:43 PMGood job on your coverage. I heard of this site from a CNN interview with one of the students involved with the "Planet." The country mourns for your fellow students, instructors and families. Prayers from New Mexico
Posted by Jo Galvan | April 16, 2007 10:44 PMMy prayers and thoughts are with victims and the families of this horrific event. I cannot begin to imagine the grief. God Bless
Posted by Anthony | April 16, 2007 10:45 PMI'm so proud of all of you at V.T. and of your strength, and of all the info you up date us with. My heart felt prayers and condolences to all the nation, and everyone at V.T. with family and friends at V.T. FOR THIS HORRIFIC MASSACRE But peace will prevail...
Posted by stacey F. | April 16, 2007 10:47 PMI am very saddened about the tragedy at VT. I attend a small college and tomorrow I am planning to meet with the dean to discuss our emergency plans. I hope that by this horrible massacre that the other schools and colleges in the world heighten their emergency plans.
My condolences! god bless!
Posted by Crystal, NY | April 16, 2007 10:48 PMOur thoughts are with you - Seattle
Posted by rick | April 16, 2007 10:48 PMNever suffer the chaos of a challenged journey. Accept the flowing serenity and healing that comes from healthy and positive energy. My heart and thoughts are with all of you. Much sympathy here from Colorado Springs, CO.
Posted by Tammy | April 16, 2007 10:51 PMMy thoughts and prayer to the victims and their families. I cannot imagine the grief you are going through. To all the VA Tech family, we are thinking of you all here in New York. God Bless
Posted by Anthony | April 16, 2007 10:51 PMMy thoughts and prayer to the victims and their families. I cannot imagine the grief you are going through. To all the VA Tech family, we are thinking of you all here in New York. God Bless
Posted by Anthony | April 16, 2007 10:51 PMMy thoughts and prayer to the victims and their families. I cannot imagine the grief you are going through. To all the VA Tech family, we are thinking of you all here in New York. God Bless
Posted by Anthony | April 16, 2007 10:52 PMNever suffer the chaos of a challenged journey. Accept the flowing serenity and healing that comes from healthy and positive energy. My heart and thoughts are with all of you. Much sympathy here from Colorado Springs, CO.
Posted by Tammy | April 16, 2007 10:52 PMThoughts and prayers go out from Richboro,Pa, just outside Philadelphia. Laura Spaventa keep up the great work,and may God Bless everyone.
Posted by Michelle | April 16, 2007 10:52 PMMy thoughts and prayer to the victims and their families. I cannot imagine the grief you are going through. To all the VA Tech family, we are thinking of you all here in New York. God Bless
Posted by Anthony | April 16, 2007 10:52 PMThoughts and prayers go out from Richboro,Pa, just outside Philadelphia. Laura Spaventa keep up the great work,and may God Bless everyone.
Posted by Michelle | April 16, 2007 10:53 PMAll of you and your families are in my prayers....
Posted by Prayers from Arkansas | April 16, 2007 10:53 PMAll of you and your families are in my prayers.....
Posted by Love from Arkansas | April 16, 2007 10:55 PMNot the kind of news college journalists want to report. My sincerest condolences to all who lost a loved one. Be brave all of you young people at Virginia Tech and keep the faith. Thoughts & prayers for all of you.
Posted by nicoletta | April 16, 2007 10:56 PMAs a VT fan and a neighbor (@ Concord U. just barely an hour away) I am devestated at the loss of life.
I have a few friends there I have not heard from and am hanging on to hear anything at all...
My thoughts are with every Hokie, parent, friend, and family member.
"Today we are all Hokies"
Posted by BGillespie | April 16, 2007 10:57 PMCondolences from Michigan
Posted by Kathi | April 16, 2007 10:57 PMUnfortunately, the title of "deadliest school shooting in modern history" is not one to be proud of. Being a Columbine H.S. graduate, it is no pleasure to pass on that title. Best wishes to everyone, my thoughts are with you and the families and friends of those that lost loved ones.
Posted by Robin | April 16, 2007 10:59 PMThe deepest condolences to the entire VT community on behalf of the UofMichigan. We share your sorrow.
Posted by Pavan P | April 16, 2007 11:00 PMWe are thinking of you all in South Carolina.
Posted by Lana | April 16, 2007 11:00 PMour hearts are crying with you here in oklahoma.
Posted by gabe | April 16, 2007 11:02 PMThere are no words to express how I feel. Only tears for the families and friends of those who lost the people they love. May you find peace and strength and healing.
Posted by Debi - Canton OH | April 16, 2007 11:06 PMAs a college instructor, I am saddened to hear of yet another violent act occuring on our nation's school campuses. I can't wrap my mind around the absurdity of it, but my heart goes out to all the staff, faculty, students and parents affected by this tragedy. Let's hope that one day we can find an end such senseless and abhorrent violence. Thank you for your reporting. The nation's heart is with you.
Posted by Elli | April 16, 2007 11:07 PMOur condolences to all of you and the entire VT family. Aren't we to learn from the past?
Posted by Hawkeye | April 16, 2007 11:07 PMhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gang_Lu
All of the faculty, students, family, friends and those of the victims are in my mind and heart.
Posted by michelle | April 16, 2007 11:08 PMmy prayers and thoughts go out to the students and families of those who were killed and injured god bless!!!
Posted by lauren | April 16, 2007 11:10 PMMy heart is broken for the entire Hokie nation and especially the families of those lost. The only comfort is the knowledge that we will rise up again as proud Hokies. May God continue to bless and keep you in His loving care.
Posted by Anthony G | April 16, 2007 11:12 PMOur thoughts and prayers are with you. Sending condolences and hugs from the Northern Shenandoah Valley.
Posted by Wilkins Family | April 16, 2007 11:13 PMI am deeply saddened by these events. My heart goes out to all the injured and the lost. May God bless and watch over you in your time of sadness.
Posted by Robert Wardecker | April 16, 2007 11:14 PMMay God watch over you- students at indiana university in south bend
Posted by Robert | April 16, 2007 11:17 PMI pray for all of you in VTech. I feel your pain and sadden to see many deads. From Vientian, Laos.
Posted by Paol Yang | April 16, 2007 11:18 PMBeautifully and written with great sensitivity. Thank you for your thoughtful article.
I, too, am glad I found Planet Blacksburg.
Very best wishes to the entire community.
Posted by Sharon | April 16, 2007 11:18 PMFrom The University of Florida, all those at Virginia Tech are in our hearts and prayers. May the victims of this tragedy rest in peace.
Posted by Nathan Burgess | April 16, 2007 11:20 PMFrom The University of Florida, all those at Virginia Tech are in our hearts and prayers. May the victims of this tragedy rest in peace.
Posted by Nathan Burgess | April 16, 2007 11:21 PMMay God wash away the horror from these good people. My sincere condolence is with you. Better day will come tomorrow for all of us. From Shanghai, China.
Posted by Amado YousengMeng | April 16, 2007 11:23 PMThis day I will remember for a long time. It is amazing that this happened at such a peaceful place in America and I wish all that were affected the best. Everyone from Lake Zurich, IL hopes that the victims and their family and friends are grieving healthily.
Posted by John | April 16, 2007 11:23 PMThe thoughts and prayers of everyone throughout America are with each of you.
Posted by Betty | April 16, 2007 11:24 PMAmerica will not forget 4-16-07. A truly devastating day. My prayers are with you all.
My deepest condolences from Pennsylvania.
Posted by Ron Kutztown University | April 16, 2007 11:25 PMOur hearts are breaking for your loss and sorrow. Please take care of yourselves and eachother. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. With sympathy in PA
Posted by Laura | April 16, 2007 11:28 PMI cannot begin to imagine what you young people are going through; alumni prayers are with you all in this terrible time of tragedy.
Posted by Dave VT Class of 89 | April 16, 2007 11:29 PMWhat a terrible thing to happen!! My thoughts and prayers to your community. From perth Australia
Posted by Jay | April 16, 2007 11:38 PMFrom York university, Toronto, Canada
May god help you heal and get through this devastating tragedy and may the victims rest in peace
Posted by Esma | April 16, 2007 11:42 PMQuote:
Posted by Ashley from Los Angeles | April 16, 2007 11:46 PM"All violence is the result of people tricking themselves into believing that their pain derives from other people and that consequently those people deserve to be punished."
-Marshall Rosenberg
I just want to say that my heart goes out to all the families of the victims. None of the victims deserved what happened to them today. I know you are all suffering from today's horrific events and my family and I will continue to pray for you all.
Sincere condolence for your loss and your pain from Austin Texas, where another young man once took so many lives from the UT Austin tower. For those who worked on the campus and for students, the event haunted the survivors. Take time to remember and honor your dead. And honor yourselves, for what you were before this event marked your lives. As people learned in Austin, there is no explanation for such an event, no amount of information will satisfy the heart. We know a great deal about Charles Whitman and what may have led to his mass shootings at UT Austin. What is known resolves nothing. There was fear and dread associated with the UT tower for decades. First, it was a reminder of the shootings. Later, it became a magnet for suicides. It is too early to do anything but wait for news and mourn, but the building where the largest number of students were killed should be taken down and a memorial and open ground should be in its place. I know that everyone I work with at UT will speak of nothing this week but the events on your campus and our own memories of the day Charles Whitman took rifles to the top of our tower.
Posted by clairwil | April 16, 2007 11:47 PMWe are horrified at this terrible act. All of us who remain here on Earth must live each day as if it matters, as if it were our last day, and make sure we do good things. Only we can help repair the world; our fallen friends cannot.
Posted by SJ | April 16, 2007 11:50 PMGod bless the beautifull people that left our world today. May God bless them and love them forever.
Posted by Ken | April 16, 2007 11:51 PMI am terribly saddened by this tradegy. i have been glued to the television all day and just cant control my emotions. my thoughts and prayers are with all Virginia Tech students faculty and parents. God Bless.
Posted by cindy | April 16, 2007 11:51 PMMy heart breaks for you all, I am so sorry this had to happen at all... Thoughts and Prayers from Saint Francis University in PA
Posted by Track247 | April 16, 2007 11:54 PMKansas is thinking of you all. Sorry very sorry.
Posted by Shelley | April 16, 2007 11:58 PMGreat reporting! You all handled this with professionalism and heart. My thoughts and prayers to all in the Hokie nation.
Mona - college teacher in California
Posted by mona | April 17, 2007 12:06 AMWe at UVa mourn and cry with you. We pray for your peace and comfort now and know you will prevail.
Posted by Kay from Charlottesville | April 17, 2007 12:06 AMOur prayers and hearts go out to you all. We so very sorry. Such a tragic event.
Posted by Glen | April 17, 2007 12:07 AMIt's hard to know how one individual can be involved to bring restoration and peace to a situation as grave as this.
Know that all of us here at UVa are mourning with you but are coming together to usher in healing and a sense of peace.
Thank you for your solid reporting. My prayers and heart are with you.
Posted by Esther | April 17, 2007 12:11 AMAs a Virginia native, I am so saddened by today's events. My heart goes out to you all -- you are my brothers and sisters. Deepest condolences from Carson City, Nevada.
Posted by Ellen Chilton | April 17, 2007 12:13 AMI live in philadelphia PA, we wish you the best in getting over this ball-less act. God is with you and for what is worth, we are too.
Posted by Mark | April 17, 2007 12:16 AMI live in Philadelphia PA, We feel for you guys in this ball-less act. God is with you and for what is worth, we are too. Some times little cracks lead to heavy floods, with rebuilding comes love and union. God bless you guys, I am not a bible thumper, just moved and wish you guys luck.
Posted by Mark | April 17, 2007 12:19 AMwow..i really cant believe that this tragedy took place..it makes me think it can happen anywhere.....all i can say is that i give my deepest condolences to families that were hurt from this tragedy and you all will be in my prayers.
Posted by Mandy from LDO, TX | April 17, 2007 12:20 AMI just want to say that I have followed the story all day and am sending my thoughts and prayers out to all of the family, friends and loved ones of all of those impacted by today's tragic events. Thoughts and prayers from Pittsburgh Pa
Posted by Kaela | April 17, 2007 12:20 AMI'm so sorry this happened to y'all. Take care of each other and know that all of us in this country and beyond have you in our hearts.
Posted by A Mom | April 17, 2007 12:36 AMI just wanted to say that my thoughts and prayers go out to everyone in Blacksburg and friends and family everywhere. I am deeply saddened by todays tragic events and my heart goes out to all of the victims friends and families. Richmond, Va
Posted by Natalia | April 17, 2007 12:37 AMOur hearts go out to the Virginia Tech community. What a terrible tragedy. We commend you for this informative and caring website. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
- Jay, Gayle and Samantha
Posted by Gayle, Jay and Samantha | April 17, 2007 12:38 AMBoca Raton, FL
as a student at Clarion University of Pennsylvania me and me friends want to send our condolences to the victims and their families and friends. we have you guys in our prayers
Posted by steve tarr | April 17, 2007 12:39 AMEveryone at the University of Arkansas is praying for th e family members, students, and everyone else that has been effected by todays terrible events. Stay strong and God bless.
Posted by Chris Bobbitt... Fay, Arkansas | April 17, 2007 12:39 AMMy heart goes out to everyone at Virginia Tech. We in Asheville are with you in your time of sorrow.
Posted by Lindsey in Asheville, NC | April 17, 2007 12:40 AMToday we lost a piece of the Hokie Nation. Tomorrow the entire Nation will never forget what it means to be a Hokie. We are Family, we must stay strong.
Posted by Edward J Carey | April 17, 2007 12:40 AMWe are keeping everyone involved in this tragedy in our thoughts and prayers. Much love from Wilmington, NC.
Posted by Matt | April 17, 2007 12:41 AMEveryone at the University of Arkansas is praying for th e family members, students, and everyone else that has been effected by todays terrible events. Stay strong and God bless.
Posted by Chris Bobbitt... Fay, Arkansas | April 17, 2007 12:41 AMhearts are with the brave people who had to deal with this sad day
Posted by IU bloomington | April 17, 2007 12:42 AMAbsolutely shocked and saddened to see and hear about the events. My condolences for your lost and fallen. Its not right that a person should be able to wipe out so many precious and incredibly gifted lives in a few minutes. Its just not fair. I have and will continue to pray for strength and justice and mercy and grace.
Posted by Dave from San Carlos, CA | April 17, 2007 12:42 AMEveryone at the University of Arkansas is praying for th e family members, students, and everyone else that has been effected by todays terrible events. Stay strong and God bless.
Posted by Chris Bobbitt... Fay, Arkansas | April 17, 2007 12:42 AMMy thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by this tragedy. From all the news coverage today, I see that the community is very strong, and will prevail. May God bless all of you and the families of the victims. Prayers from Copperas Cove TX
Posted by Suzie | April 17, 2007 12:42 AMAbsolutely shocked and saddened to see and hear about the events. My condolences for your lost and fallen. Its not right that a person should be able to wipe out so many precious and incredibly gifted lives in a few minutes. Its just not fair. I have and will continue to pray for strength and justice and mercy and grace.
Posted by Dave from San Carlos, CA | April 17, 2007 12:42 AMEveryone at the University of Arkansas is praying for th e family members, students, and everyone else that has been effected by todays terrible events. Stay strong and God bless.
Posted by Chris Bobbitt... Fay, Arkansas | April 17, 2007 12:43 AMAbsolutely shocked and saddened to see and hear about the events. My condolences for your lost and fallen. Its not right that a person should be able to wipe out so many precious and incredibly gifted lives in a few minutes. Its just not fair. I have and will continue to pray for strength and justice and mercy and grace.
Posted by Dave from San Carlos, CA | April 17, 2007 12:43 AMWords fail. Our hearts cry for the unfathomable losses. Mothers and Fathers, Sisters, brothers, cousins, aunts and uncles, best friends, teachers. We pray for you to find comfort.
Posted by Suse | April 17, 2007 12:46 AMThank you for the informative website. In Davenport, Iowa we are all praying for all the people who have been affected by this horrible tragedy. Hopefully in the days ahead it will get easier to deal with the hurt and bad memories. So you all will be in my prayers for some time to come. God bless you all. I am so so sorry for the losses of life.
Posted by Tena | April 17, 2007 12:46 AMPrayer should have never left our schools!!!!!
Posted by len olbes | April 17, 2007 12:49 AMAs a Hokie alum, I cannot begin to express the intense sorrow I feel after today's tragic events. My one comfort is in my undying faith in the strength, unity, and undying spirit of the entire Hokie Nation.
God bless.
Posted by Jamie Cassey | April 17, 2007 12:51 AMToday, God wept. We do live in a very broken world. Peace and prayers from a Liberty University friend.
Posted by Don Harlan | April 17, 2007 12:55 AMKnow that our thoughts and prayers are with you, VT, from Marquette University in Milwaukee.
Posted by emili | April 17, 2007 12:56 AMThought's and prayers from Wayne State University, Detroit Michigan.
Posted by Jessica | April 17, 2007 12:58 AMMy prayers are with you!! No one should have to go through this.
Lacey from Napa, CA
Posted by Lacey | April 17, 2007 12:58 AMI'm a parent of a college freshman. I called my daughter in upstate New York just to hear her voice today. I am so very sorry. Am praying for you all.
Beverly Hills, California
Posted by Merril | April 17, 2007 12:59 AMI hope everyone will be ok, my thoughts go out to everyone there
Posted by Nathan H | April 17, 2007 1:00 AMMay God be with the students, staff, professors at Viginia Tech and parents of the victims during this difficult moments. Prayers from Ont, Canada.
Posted by Karen | April 17, 2007 1:04 AMMy prayers are with VT and the Blacksburg community. May God bless you. Phoenix, AZ
Posted by Latisha | April 17, 2007 1:05 AMits been extremely tough watching footage of all the chaos at a place that gave me such fond memories. stay strong HOKIES and God bless. my prayers are with all of you.
Posted by Josh L | April 17, 2007 1:05 AMMay Gods peace find all of you,may you find comfort and rest in his bossom.
Posted by Pamela | April 17, 2007 1:08 AMThis loss, this tragedy, the insanity of it all, nothing making sense of so much anger turning to murder and this aftermath of this turning into a day that will never be forgotten by so many. Blessings to all the family and friends surrounding this painful event in time. I am from Minnesota,and I am still in a state of anxiety and mourning, my heart goes out. As I try to to express my feelings, I am so overwhelmed all I can add now is Blessings to All!
Posted by LORETTA Marie SODERBERG | April 17, 2007 1:14 AMAs a sibling of a former Hokie and a future VT student at the Hampton Roads Extension Campus in VA Beach, my hearts go out to the Blacksburg community tonight. Words cannot convey my deepest sympathy to all and their families. God Bless You All.
Posted by Kim | April 17, 2007 1:18 AMIn strength and love,
Kim - VA Beach, VA
What a horrible tragedy to befall your campus! I work at a public university and have a special place in my heart for college students, whose energy and presence make my job something to look forward to every day. Know that your school's staff members are there for you and lean on them during the weeks to come. In the meantime, I will be praying for you, your families and your campus community for the strength to endure your trials.
Posted by A Kentucky friend | April 17, 2007 1:22 AMYour media class's reporting of today's massive violence speaks volumes about your inner strength. I pray that the VT campus staff, students and families will continue to draw from such courage to sustain each of you through this terrible time.
Posted by John from McAllen, TX | April 17, 2007 1:24 AMThe Edwards Family
We are simply heartbroken by the deaths and injuries suffered at Virginia Tech. We know what an unspeakable, life-changing moment this is for these families and how, in this moment, it is hard to feel anything but overwhelming grief, much less the love and support around you. But the love and support is there. We pray that these families, these students, and the entire Virginia Tech community know that they are being embraced by a nation. There is a Methodist hymn that gave us solace in such a moment as this, and we repeat its final verse here, in hopes it will help these families, as it helped us:
In our end is our beginning; in our time, infinity;
In our doubt there is believing, in our life, eternity,
In our death, a resurrection; at the last, a victory,
Unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see.
Our dearest wish is that this day could start again, with the promise of these young people alive. Knowing that cannot be, our prayer is for God�s grace and whatever measure of peace can be reached on this terrible day.
Posted by Edwards Family | April 17, 2007 1:33 AMJohn and Elizabeth Edwards
my thoughts and prayers go out to all of Hokie nation tonight. god bless the fallen and their families.
bryan in los angeles
Posted by bryan wynbrandt | April 17, 2007 1:41 AMmy thoughts and prayers go out to all of Hokie nation tonight. god bless the fallen and their families.
bryan in los angeles
Posted by bryan wynbrandt | April 17, 2007 1:41 AMOur hearts are heavy here in Lewisburg WV Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone.So sad......
Posted by Renee Berry Fogus | April 17, 2007 1:46 AMNo event has made me as sad as the horrific news of the killings at VT. I have a son at UVA and can't imagine the pain and horror the parents and friends of those killed are having to endure. May God be with you all. May the shooter burn in Hell.
Posted by John Simmons | April 17, 2007 1:47 AMPlease know that everyone at the University of Southern California has you in our thoughts and prayers.
Be strong--a nation mourns with you.
God bless.
Posted by Trojan Family | April 17, 2007 1:47 AMfrom a fellow student in another state:
Posted by c clifton | April 17, 2007 1:47 AMto all of you at Virginia Tech--my deepest and most sincere sympathy and concern goes out to you--may God grant you peace and comfort--all across the country we mourn for your loss--you are in our hearts and minds and prayers
I am deeply saddened by this terrible tragedy. I wish to extend my deepest condolence to the families and friends of the victims and pray for their lives as well.
God Bless to everyone and stay strong!
Tina
Posted by tina | April 17, 2007 1:47 AMPhilippines
I am in shock, I am so sorry, and our thoughts are with you from Los Angeles.
Posted by Todd | April 17, 2007 1:48 AMLove to you all from an alumna in the Badger State. May you find peace and healing.
Posted by hokie in WI | April 17, 2007 1:50 AMUt Prosim "That I May Serve"
Years ago many of us came together to assist the university forward. We need to come toge