The victim was a student at The Covenant School and was only sixteen when her life abruptly ended during a school shooting.
The painful tragedy left the entire Nashville, Tennessee, community in shock and sorrow.
Her sister Eleanor shared heartbreaking statements to The Missourian after learning the news that her sister had been one of those killed during the rampage.
She spoke of her cherished moments with Evelyn, sharing none were more treasured than when Eleanor got to watch her sister live out one of her biggest passions: Dance.
Concluding that even though she can no longer watch Evelyn achieve great things on the dance floor, she will always make sure her memory lives on through herself and other family members.
The effects of the shooting were devastating and far-reaching. As Audrey Elizabeth Hale opened fire, six people were killed in the attack; their families, their friends, and the entire school community are grieving for their loss.
As police responded to the scene, they shot and killed the murderer.
Despite being determined dead at the scene, many questions still remain unanswered as authorities attempt to uncover what could have possibly driven a 28-year-old woman to unleash such senseless violence.
Among these victims was Evelyn, Eleanor’s only sister, who was reportedly close to her sibling. Upon learning of the tragedy, Eleanor expressed her grief poignantly: “I do not want to be an only child.”
Although we are unsure of Evelyn’s relationship dynamic with her sister, it is clear that her passing has resonated deep within this family and with those who knew them best.
At just twelve or thirteen years old, Evelyn Dieckhaus’ sister Eleanor must have been a strong confidante and nurturer.
The neighbor’s statement about staging plays in the backyards indicates that the two were likely quite similar in their love for performance, sparking creativity and admiration from those around them.
Since the incident, numerous families have offered prayers and condolences to the remaining family members to find strength during this difficult period of mourning.
On social media, there has been an influx of pictures of Evelyn’s parents showing consideration toward their loss as they search for answers and some sense of hope in the face of such unbearable grief.
One photo has stood out above all else: that of Dr. Michael Dieckhaus holding baby Evelyn with an incredible outpouring of love almost as real today as it was when it was first taken years ago – a reminder for all of how intensely we can feel towards our loved ones.
How is the community responding to the gruesome tragedy?
Following this unexpected and devastating tragedy that has shaken the entire community, members of Belmont United Methodist Church held a meaningful prayer vigil for the victims who have passed away.
The school administration’s statement asked everyone to channel their grief and murmured prayers into action in order to help the affected families and honour the victims.
It is evident that this support offered by the church will certainly bring immense strength and comfort to all those experiencing great loss at this difficult time.
As friends and family remember Evelyn fondly as an “adorable” young girl, others find solace in supporting one another during this difficult time.
Nine-year-olds Hallie Scruggs and William Kinney are tragically no longer with us, along with school staff members Cynthia Peak, Katherine Koonce, and Mike Hill – each one leaves behind a deep impression on the ones who loved them most.
The community is coming together in support, realizing the magnitude of this tragedy and working towards healing in any way they can.
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