What should have been a joyous occasion was tempered with sadness as the Farmington High School Class of 2023 accepted diplomas a day after learning one of their classmates caused a senseless tragedy.
Beau Wilson, 18, shot and killed three women before being shot to death by police, leaving his classmates to balance the emotions between shock and success. Trey Jones, who served as salutatorian, acknowledged the tragedy. “I would like to acknowledge the heartbreaking event that occurred in the Farmington community," Jones said during the commencement ceremonies, per KOB 4. “My heart goes out to the family and friends in the community that was affected, I hope and pray for our community’s swift recovery and healing.”
Most parents and graduating students preferred focusing on the graduation ceremonies instead of discussing the horror Wilson inflected. It was the second time in recent weeks that the normally quiet town has been rocked by tragedy. Last month Farmington police officers were at the wrong address when homeowner Robert Dotson, 52, had a gun in his hand when he answered their knock on the door. The officers shot and killed Dotson, putting the FPD under scrutiny.
Now the city is trying to cope with a deadly mass shooting caused by one of its residents. Some parents said it was time to move forward. “It’s important for us parents to be positive and just keep the motivation going in positive directions for the younger generation,” Alecia Teasyatwho told KOB4.
The day after the seniors graduated hundreds of Farmington residents gathered at the Farmington Museum to honor the victims: Shirley Voita, 79, Gwendolyn Dean Schofield, 97, and Melodie Ivie, 73. “The shockingly violent incident that occurred Monday disrupted the peace in our community." Sheriff Shane Ferrari said. "Sadly, three of our community members were barbarically taken from their families. Several citizens are recovering from wounds sustained from gunfire.”
According to police, the gunman left a note behind which read, "If you're reading this, I'm the end of the chapter. Lay eyes or dear put a finger on my little sister. I promise there will be regrets."
KOB 4 reported that Wilson had obtained substantial ammunition at his residence. The weapons, including 10 firearms of varying calibers, didn't belong to him but were accessible.
