Written by Television reporter Alison Parker, 24, and cameraman Adam Ward, 27, were shot and killed Wednesday morning while broadcasting live for CBS affiliate WDBJ7 near Roanoke, Virginia. The suspected gunman, 41 year old Vester Flanagan, was a former employee of the television station who went by Bryce Williams on-air.
The shooting was captured from two different camera angles, one of which was airing live on the WDBJ7 news station. The victims are seen in their final moments, at the Bridgewater Plaza, a recreational facility with shops, restaurants, a mini golf course and boat rentals. Alison is seen interviewing Vicki Gardner, executive director of the Smith Mountain Lake Chamber of Commerce. Adam Ward held the news station’s camera, alternating between filming Alison and Vicki, and the scenery behind them. Vester Flanagan had his camera out as well, and was apparently live streaming his approach. You can see his weapon drawn on camera as he approaches the scene of the interview. At first nobody notices him, he utters “bitch,” backs up and pauses, as if he felt bad about interrupting, before advancing and opening fire. Alison Parker was hit first, screamed and began running away before she succumbed to her wounds. Adam is struck, and his camera is dropped. Adam can be heard shouting “Oh my g-” before another gunshot ends his life. Vicki Gardner was also hit, but is now recovering after surgery.
This post originally contained a link to a YouTube video from Vester Flanagan’s point of view. YouTube has removed the video, but I uploaded a copy to this website, and it is embedded at the end of this post.
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