Alabama A&M asks for prayers, support following week of tragedy

HUNTSVILLE, Alabama -- This past week has been a difficult one for Alabama A&M University. The students and faculty have been hit with not one, but three tragedies.

AAMU President Andrew Hugine Jr. said they will "prayerfully cope" with these events that have "impacted members of our immediate and extended university family." In a statement released Thursday, Hugine asked that the community continue to support and pray for Alabama A&M, which has "had to deal with three distinct tragedies, one of which received national attention."

This refers to last Saturday's spring break shooting at a Panama City Beach house party. Three of the seven victims were Alabama A&M students. An update on Wednesday revealed that Kearria Freed, Annesia Powell and Kelli Curry are showing signs of improvement. They still have a long road of recovery ahead. Freed and Powell remain hospitalized and in physical therapy. Freed was the shot in the head and suffered the most serious injuries. Her movements have been very restricted since but are improving, officials say.

"We are pleased that the young ladies are showing optimism and resilience," Hugine said. "To rally further support for the victims, we organized an effective candlelight vigil on Monday, March 30, where hundreds of students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community supporters gathered and even offered financial assistance. We also have engaged our counseling personnel to provide services as needed to students and other members of the University family."



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