FLORENCE, Ky. – The Florence community gathered to bid farewell to two of the four victims of the recent mass shooting. Delaney Eary, 19, and Hayden Rybicki, 20, were honored and laid to rest on Friday in emotional ceremonies attended by family and friends.
Rybicki’s funeral took place at Middendorf Funeral Home, where Donovan Guard, a close friend, expressed his deep sorrow at the loss of his energetic and uplifting friend. Guard struggled to come to terms with the reality of Rybicki’s passing, highlighting the profound impact of his absence.
Eary was remembered at Grace Fellowship Church, where Dominic Toepfert, a friend, shared heartfelt sentiments about her warm personality and infectious smile. Toepfert expressed hope for justice and peace for Eary’s family during this difficult time.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of the tragedy, Christy Burch, CEO of the Ion Center, emphasized the importance of reaching out for support through their crisis and tech lines. The center stands ready to assist those struggling with the trauma and grief of the mass shooting.
In addition to Eary and Rybicki, Shane Miller, 20, and Melissa Parrett, 44, were also victims of the mass shooting on July 6. Efforts to aid those affected by the tragedy have begun, including various fundraising events planned to support the victims and survivors.
Chase Garvey, the alleged perpetrator of the mass shooting, passed away at St. Elizabeth Hospital after turning the gun on himself. The community continues to mourn the loss of the lives taken too soon, coming together to support and comfort one another during this challenging time.