Memorial procession held to honor families impacted by violence in Pueblo
Mackenzie Stafford
PUEBLO, Colo. (KRDO) – On Monday morning, Pueblo leaders held a peaceful, supportive ride, honoring all children and families impacted by violence in the Pueblo community.
Initially, when announced by the Pueblo County Coroner’s office, the community memorial caravan procession was solely to honor Jesus and Yesenia Dominguez. The 5 and 3-year-olds were killed in Pueblo.
The county coroner’s office has since updated the procession to honor all children and families impacted by violence, including the Dominguez siblings. The office cites an overwhelming outpouring of community interest for the change.
PREVIOUS REPORTING: Pueblo storage owner recounts finding dead child in concrete inside a unit
The procession began at 10 a.m. Monday, Dec. 8, at the Pueblo County Coroner’s Office at 1300 N Santa Fe Drive. Participants rode in a single file manner with lights on to the south-facing side of the Pueblo County Courthouse. A memorial flower was also given to attendees wishing to take a stand against violence in the community.
Organizers say it’s an opportunity for the community to come together in peaceful solidarity, love, and remembrance, for not only the Dominguez siblings, but for all families and children in the community who have been impacted by violence.
Among those in the crowd was the 13-year-old girl, Diamond, who was recently shot in Pueblo. The shooter, Romello Hernandez, recently entered into a guilty plea and will be sentenced next month.
Family of Santana Lucero was also in attendance. According to family, Lucero’s body was dumped near Lake Minnequa. A 25-year-old man was recently arrested and charged with murder in his death.
“We’re here to support and be a part of something that could turn into being great,” said Kimberly Bell, mother of Santana Lucero.
The Pueblo County Coroner’s Office, Pueblo Police Department, Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office and Pueblo County District Attorney’s Office participated.