Family holds vigil for Wilkinsburg mass shooting victims: ‘We're a family united'

WILKINSBURG, Pa. — Five weeks after five people, including a woman who was eight months pregnant, were gunned down in Wilkinsburg, family members held a vigil Tuesday to remember those lost as the search for their killers continues.

“These kids need closure. They don't understand why they lost their parents,” family matriarch Jessica Shelton said.%

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In all, 11 children lost a parent on the night of March 9 when two gunmen opened fire on a backyard gathering in Wilkinsburg.

“We're a family united. Nothing's going to break us, not now,” Shelton said.

A small group made up mostly of loved ones returned to the crime scene Tuesday to pray and release balloons.

Some progress has been made in the criminal case, with Robert Thomas being named a suspect. However, his alleged involvement remains unclear and no charges have been filed.

• RELATED: One of 4 questioned in Wilkinsburg mass shooting named suspect

Three others, Cheron Shelton, Ashley Smith and Justin Gomez, have been questioned in connection with the shooting.

“I don't even pay attention,” Jessica Shelton said. “For me to focus on every time the news say they got a suspect, that would drive me crazy.”

She the focus right now remains on family.

“Tina, Michael, Brittany, Channetta and Shada left behind a whole legacy, you know. That needs answers,” Jessica Shelton said.

Jessica Shelton also thanked the community for all the love and financial support her family has received.

She added that she will continue to hold vigils every month until the killers are brought to justice.

Cox Media Group