Walmart CEO, John Furner, has released a company-wide memo, offering messages of healing after a deadly Chesapeake Walmart shooting.
This comes after a disgruntled employee shot and killed six of his colleagues a little over a week ago in the store’s breakroom, shattering hearts throughout the Commonwealth.
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The victims have been identified as Lorenzo Gamble, Brian Pendleton, Kellie Pyle, Randall Blevins, Tyneka Johnson and Fernando “Jesus” Chavez-Barron.
“The entire Walmart family continues to feel heartbreak over last week’s tragic event at Store #1841,” said Furner. “As we shared, a Walmart associate opened fire last Tuesday night, in the store’s breakroom. Sadly, this resulted in the deaths of six amazing, irreplaceable members of our family.”
In the statement, Furner explained how the company will continue to honor their memory and support the families affected by such a tragic loss. He said the Walmart Foundation will contribute $1 million to the United Way of South Hampton Roads’ Hope & Healing Fund. The fund offers support to those affected by the shooting as well as the Chesapeake community.
He also made note of free confidential mental health support resources, which can be found here.
“Nothing can replace these beautiful lives, or heal the scars their loved ones have now suffered. Hundreds of associates, leaders, and community members attended vigils in their honor the past two nights. As we grieve, we’re supporting these families with funeral, travel and other expenses. And we have a physical site set up where associates can meet, connect and speak to counselors.”
Furner said the store will be closed for the foreseeable future, but all employees will continue being paid.
See the full note Walmart CEO John Furner sent to his employees below:
Honoring Chesapeake - Note From Walmart CEO by Jazmine Otey on Scribd