Local

Special committee formed to determine how donations for Jacksonville Landing mass shooting victims should be distributed

Ptarons returned to Chicago Pizza for the first time since the deadly mass shooting at Jacksonville Landing on August 26. 

New signs are posted on the doors prohibiting backpacks, large bags, and luggage inside the restaurant, but while the restaurant reopened the GLHF gaming bar remains closed. 

The gaming bar is being re-built from the ground up. 

"After everything happened the way it did it shook the community that this place encourages. To see it open again...on it's way back to the way it was means a lot," said UNF student Traaian Marginean. 

Crosses also hang from the door as a symbol of hop and faith moving forward on the reopening day for Chicago Pizza. 

Jacksonville, FL — Following the mass shooting at the Jacksonville Landing during a Madden video game tournament, a special committee has now been created to help determine how funds collected for the victims will be distributed.

The National Compassion Fund says the committee will include the following members:

  • Barabara Alexander, Executive Director, Exchange Club Family Center
  • Deborah Davis, Senior Counsel, Electronic Arts Inc.
  • Zach Farley, Global Player Engagement Lead Electronic Arts Inc.
  • Jay Howell, Attorney and Victim Advocate
  • Linda Levin, CEO, ElderSource
  • Lt. Sharon Scott, Jacksonville Sheriff's Office
  • Eric Smith, Former President, Jacksonville City Council
  • Sheila Spivey, Sr. Director UNF Women's Center

Former City Council president Eric Smith will be leading that committee, which is a responsibility he says he takes seriously.

"The steering committee in collaboration with the National Compassion Fund, is publishing a series of protocols and timelines for distributing the funds... We take this responsibility very seriously and are committed to doing what is right for all involved," Smith says in a statement.

The committee is being tasked with fairly distributing the Jacksonville Tribute Fund, which was started with a $1 million gift from Electronic Arts. Donations are continuing to be accepted through November 30th, with distribution of those funds planned for late December. You can donate to the fund, by clicking HERE. 

The committee plans to take public comment about the fund and how the money should be distributed on October 18th at the Prime Osborn Convention Center, from 7:00 PM- 8:30 PM.

Victims and survivors of the Landing shooting who may have questions can call 1-855-4VICTIM or send an email to jacksonville@victimsofcrime.org

mobile apps

Everything you love about wokv.com and more! Tap on any of the buttons below to download our app.

amazon alexa

Enable our Skill today to listen live at home on your Alexa Devices!