“Voice” singer Christina Grimmie shot and killed
On June 10, 2016, “Voice” singer Christina Grimmie was shot and killed by a man police identified the next day. Grimmie was signing autographs at a meet-and-greet that night when a man approached her and opened fire. She was rushed to the hospital where she died within the hour.
Police reports uncovered that a total of 3 shots were fired–two hitting Grimmie and one fatally killing the shooter. Witness testimonies found that the singer’s brother, Marcus Grimmie, heard the shots and immediately tackled the shooter when he then shot and killed himself. “About 120 people were at the meet-and-greet, and the brother’s quick actions may have saved other lives,” police said. Marcus Grimmie paid tribute to the singer in a Facebook post, saying he has “no words.” He also added, “Christina was more than my sister. She was a partner in life. A superstar. A goofball. Introverted. A friend to everyone. But above all… she was my baby sister.”
The shooter had in his possession two handguns, two additional loaded magazines, and a large hunting knife during the time of the attack. Police Chief John Mina and investigators were unable to find a clear motive but said that the shooter had an extreme fascination with the singer. He had undergone plastic surgery and gone vegan months before the planned killing to appeal to Grimmie. There is no evidence that the two knew each other personally prior to the attack.
The Plaza Live, where Christina was performing, is a smaller venue. It is unclear what type of security measures were in place that night, but police records showed a lack of metal detectors and other checks. There were security guards at the center, but it is unclear whether patrons were checked for weapons. The security guards at the Plaza were also unarmed.
Many witnesses were questioned after the attack, but no additional information was discovered. All the public knew for sure that day was that Christina Grimmie had her arms open to greet him with a hug, but he pulled a gun out instead.
Fans are still mourning the death of a beautiful and talented girl who shone brighter than any star in the sky. “My heart is absolutely broken,” friend Selena Gomez commented in a tweet. “I miss you Christina.”
Hannah Irelan is a senior at DCHS and this is her third year on the Parnassus staff. In her spare time, she enjoys volunteering at Noah’s Ark Daycare,...