The horrific events of yesterday's (August 12th) White Nationalist protest had claimed one life, by way of a man who drove his car headlong into a group fo counter protesters who stood for a non-racist agenda. Now, the woman who perished as a result has been identified.
As per CBS News, the 32-year old woman killed in Charlottesville, Virginia, was Heather Heyer, authorities announced today. Heyer was a Charlottesville resident who, according to police, was simply crossing the street when she was struck by the vehicle in question. After being rushed to hospital, she was pronounced dead.
"My heart goes out to Heather Heyer's family. She died standing up against hate and bigotry. Her bravery should inspire all to come together," Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe tweeted Saturday along with a photo of Heyer. In addition to the governor's words, a spokesperson for University of Virginia Medical Center said Sunday confirmed that the hospital was treating five other victims listed as being in critical condition. More than a dozen additional victims are being treated for various injuries as well.
Friends of Heyer's have set up a GoFundMe that has raised over $100,000 as of this writing. "Heather Heyer was murdered while protesting against hate," the page states. "We are raising money to give to her family for anything that they may need. The family is aware of this and is in complete charge of when and where the funds will be released."
