Hesston marks 5th anniversary of fatal workplace shooting

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Hesston marks 5th anniversary of fatal workplace shooting

Posted February 25, 2021

Residents of Hesston and workers at the Excel Industries plant took time Thursday to remember the victims of the workplace shooting that claimed three lives five years ago.

A gunman killed three people and injured 14 others in the shooting on February 25th, 2016.

Excel Industries issued a statement:

“The tragedy that took place on February 25, 2016 forever changed our company. Excel Industries has a planned moment of silence today to honor the victims. We will never forget the innocent people who lost their lives that day — Renee Benjamin, Joshua Higbee and Brian Sadowsky, and the suffering endured by countless others, including the 14 others who were shot in an act of senseless violence. We are forever grateful to the first responders, and especially to Chief Officer Doug Schroeder, who showed their bravery and to our local community who showered the survivors and every member of our organization with love and support. We remain #ExcelStrong.”

Harvey County Emergency Management also issued a statement on Facebook:

Five years ago, a gunman killed three people and injured several others in an incident that began in Newton and ended at Excel Industries in Hesston. The actions were unconscionable and unspeakably tragic, leaving a scar many people in our communities still feel to this day. Our thoughts continue to be with the victims and their families.

There are few silver linings to an event like this. However, the event showed that heroes are among us, ready to respond in the darkest of moments. It showed the resilience of our community support systems. And it showed that the people of Harvey County are always ready to help one another when we need it most.

We are #Hesstonstrong, today and every day.

[photo: Harvey County Emergency Management – Facebook ]