During a time of celebration, the lives of multiple people were taken away at an LGBTQ+ nightclub in Colorado. The tragic event took place on November 19, 2022, when Anderson Lee Aldrich walked in and began shooting. There were a couple of witnesses who helped disarm the suspect. One of these brave people was veteran, Thomas James. Petty Officer James shares,  “If I had my way, I would shield everyone I could from the nonsensical acts of hate in the world, but I am only one person.” There was a total of 19 injuries, five of them were fatal.

 Club Q was the only LGBTQ+ nightclub in Colorado Springs, Colorado. It was used as a hub for the community and its allies alike to socialize and be able to live authentically. 

Alderich was charged with 305 criminal counts, of these include first degree murder and hate crimes. “When you file 305 counts in a case, that tells the public, this community, this state and this nation that we are taking this case as seriously as we possibly can and we are going to prosecute this case to the fullest extent of the law,” reports Fourth Judicial District Attorney Michael Allen in a conference after the court hearing. The justice system is doing its part to bring closure to the Colorado Springs community. 

Not everyone injured in the event was out as being a part of the LGBTQ+ community. On that particular night there were many allies and visitors looking to have a fun night out. All of the United States, even globally, are sharing the names of those who passed at the hands of Anderson Lee Alderich. Here are the names of those who have had their lives taken too soon: Raymond Green Vance, Kelly Loving, Daniel Aston, Derrick Rump, Ashley Paugh. 

Remember their names.