NAU campus shows support for shooting victims

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (KSAZ) - It shook the campus and the community, last Friday's shooting at Northern Arizona University. It changed the lives of five students and their families forever. One of those students was killed in the gunfire, three others injured, and one is facing time behind bars.

The shooting happened in a parking lot outside of a campus dorm; an argument started it all and the violence left everyone shocked and saddened.

NAU students, staff, and members of the community came together for the first time since the shooting. Hundreds turned out to show their support for the surviving victims and honor the victim who was killed.

The Shrine of the Ages Choir opened the program in song, students wearing blue and gold to show their solidarity. Members of the Delta Chi Fraternity, which the shooting victims belonged to, led the procession through the NAU campus with several thousands of students joining the solemn, silent march along the way.

One of the survivors walked in front of the sea of the students as the Lumberjack community united to remember and hold each other up.

"The tragic events of last Friday have left us all in a state of shock. Our hearts go out to the students involved and their families, their lives will never be the same and for that I'm deeply saddened," said NAU President Rita Cheng.

The Delta Chi Fraternity having lost one of their own, held each other up. Colin Brough died in Friday's shooting. Three other members; Nicholas Prato, Nicholas Piring, and Kyle Zientek survived the gunfire.

Flagstaff's Mayor said the entire city was also hurting.

"When NAU is hurt, and NAU grieves, so does this city," said Mayor Jerry Jabours.

Tuesday's gathering is not only a chance for the community to reflect and remember the life lost, and the lives forever changed, but also to help the university cope and move forward.

"I know in my heart that the bonds that hold us together will be strengthened by learning from, and caring for each other in the days and weeks ahead," said Cheng.

The alleged gunman Steven Jones remains held in jail on a $2 million cash-only bond. He's facing one count of murder and three counts of aggravated assault.