HMB To Hold Victim Remembrance Events In Wake Of Mass Shooting

HALF MOON BAY, CA — Half Moon Bay will hold several victim remembrance events Tuesday in the aftermath of a mass shooting left seven people dead and one critically injured, city officials said.

Chunli Zhao, 66, of Half Moon Bay, has been charged with seven counts of murder and one count of attempted murder in connection with the hooting, San Mateo County District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe said. Zhao is being held without bail.

“The Coastside continues to rally together through tough and tragic events, and it is a testament to why so many of us call this place home, choose to work here, or visit often,” officials said in a statement posted on the city’s website.

“We know the community has been looking for opportunities to come together and grieve the seven lives lost and others that have been directly affected.”

The events are being organized by the Archdiocese of San Francisco, the Coastside Interfaith Community, the City of Half Moon Bay, the County of San Mateo, the Chamber of Commerce, and other community-based organizations.

Tuesday (Jan. 31) at 4 p.m., Our Lady of the Pillar Church and the Coastside Interfaith Community will host a memorial service at the Boys & Girl Club Event Center at 530 Kelly Avenue. This service will include prayers and healing words from the interfaith leaders in remembrance of the victims and hope for the future. Spanish, Mandarin, and ASL interpretation will be provided.

Immediately following the memorial service, a candlelight processional walk will occur down Kelly Avenue, past the Mac Dutra Plaza memorial, and down Main Street to the I.D.E.S. Hall.

Tuesday (Jan. 31) at 6 p.m. at the I.D.E.S. Hall (735 Main Street), the City, County, and Chamber of Commerce will hold a Community Gathering for dinner and fellowship. Anyone planning to attendis urged to register.

Half Moon Bay on Friday held a vigil at Mac Dutra Plaza.

Resources including mental health counseling will be available for community members, city officials said.

The City’s CARES Team is available seven days a week, from 8 a.m. through 6:30 p.m. by calling 988 or 650-713-5467. The County of San Mateo Crisis Response Team is also available to provide mental health resources by calling 800-686-0101.