The city of Aurora, Illinois, will hold a wreath-laying ceremony on February 15, 2026, to commemorate the seventh anniversary of the tragic mass shooting that claimed the lives of five employees at Henry Pratt Company. On that day in 2019, a disgruntled employee opened fire, killing Clayton Parks, Trevor Wehner, Russell Beyer, Vicente Juarez, and Josh Pinkard, while also injuring five police officers who responded to the scene. This somber event remains etched in the memory of the Aurora Police Department (APD) and the community, serving as a reminder of both the tragedy and the ongoing commitment to public safety.
Retired Aurora Police Chief Keith Cross, who was serving as deputy chief during the shooting, reflects on the lasting impact of that day. He recalls the “heavy, heavy weight” of uncertainty and fear as he waited outside local hospitals for updates on wounded officers. “There are really no words to describe it,” Cross said, emphasizing the confusion and emotional turmoil experienced by law enforcement and the community alike.
Community Support and Subsequent Challenges
In the aftermath of the shooting, the community rallied around the APD, expressing gratitude for the officers’ bravery that day. Many were hailed as heroes, celebrated for their efforts in preventing further tragedy. The emotional scars from the incident, however, lingered, affecting officers long after the public accolades faded.
Yet, just a year later, a national incident involving police brutality—the killing of George Floyd—altered public perception of law enforcement. Protests erupted across the nation, including in Aurora, where demonstrations turned violent, resulting in property damage and heightened tensions. The officers who had been honored for their heroism now faced scrutiny and backlash.
These events have created a complex environment for the APD. In February 2022, a protest against federal immigration enforcement escalated when approximately 1,500 students walked out of East Aurora High School. During the demonstration, confrontations arose between students and officers, leading to multiple arrests and further negative media attention. Aurora Police Sergeant Marco Gomez, who was severely injured during the Pratt shooting, expressed concern about the toll these incidents have taken on police morale. He noted that his children were nearly left without a father due to the gunman’s actions.
Balancing Accountability and Public Perception
Both Cross and Gomez recognize that scrutiny of law enforcement is part of the job. Cross stated that accountability is essential and that police should not be exempt from criticism. However, he stressed the importance of fairness, especially in an age where viral videos can shape public opinion instantaneously, often before all facts are known.
“When officers are put in difficult situations, people often don’t understand the process or procedures,” Cross remarked. “The public sees a 10-second clip of a person getting tackled and forms opinions without the full context.”
As Aurora prepares to remember the victims of the Pratt shooting, both Cross and Gomez hope the focus remains on honoring their memory rather than the controversies surrounding law enforcement. Gomez emphasized that the ceremony should be about the lives lost rather than the issues currently facing the department. “This week should be about them,” he stated, reflecting on the importance of community unity during times of grief.
Despite the challenges, Gomez remains optimistic about the APD’s future and its commitment to serving all community members, regardless of public sentiment. He believes that the department, recognized as one of the most respected and well-trained in the nation, will continue to fulfill its duty to protect and serve. “We will be there for the community, whether we have their support or not,” he affirmed.
As Aurora comes together on this anniversary, the legacy of the five victims and the resilience of the community and its police force will be at the forefront of remembrance. The ceremony will serve as a poignant reminder of the weight that comes with the badge and the enduring responsibility to keep the community safe.
