PARKLAND, Florida – The demolition of the 1200 building at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School has begun, marking a significant moment of closure for the community following the tragic shooting that took place there in 2018. Nikolas Cruz’s rampage resulted in the deaths of 14 students and three adults, making it the deadliest high school shooting in U.S. history. Hunter Pollack, the brother of one of the victims, Meadow Pollack, expressed relief at the removal of the building, which served as a constant reminder of the horrific events that took place.
Pollack emphasized the emotional toll of passing by the building daily and the need for closure in the community. He recalled the pain of knowing his sister was killed in the building and the anger he feels about the preventable tragedy. “Every day I drive by that building, the pain in my heart. It makes me want to throw up because it reminds me my sister was murdered on that third floor,” Pollack shared.
The decision to demolish the building comes after years of it standing as a painful reminder to students and community members. The reconstruction of a new building has already provided some relief, replacing temporary classrooms used after the massacre. Cruz, who carried out the attack, was sentenced to life in prison without parole, while the former school resource officer, Scot Peterson, was acquitted of charges related to the incident.
The demolition process is expected to take several weeks, with survivors, families of victims, along with teachers and staff, being given the opportunity to retrieve any personal items they desired. Despite the uncertainty about what will happen to the site after the building is torn down, Pollack expressed support for potentially building a memorial but reiterated that any decision must consider the impact on the community.
Reflecting on the horrors witnessed and the impact of the tragedy, Pollack emphasized the need for a fresh start for the community. He recounted the gruesome scenes within the building and the emotional toll it took on those who experienced it. The removal of the building signifies a symbolic step towards healing and closure for the community, acknowledging the need to move forward from the traumatic events that occurred there.