RAPID CITY, S.D. — For the third year, the Pennington County State’s Attorney’s Office will bring families and community members together to remember those whose lives were taken by violence.

The office will host its annual event recognizing the National Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims on Tuesday, September 22, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on the west lawn of the Pennington County Courthouse.

“Each name we read represents a life that mattered, a family that continues to carry that loss and a person who should still be here,” said Pennington County State’s Attorney Lara Roetzel. “This evening gives us an opportunity to stand alongside those families, remember their loved ones and make sure they know their community has not forgotten.”

The program will feature several speakers, followed by a remembrance vigil. Families are encouraged to bring photos of their loved ones to display during the event. The names of victims will be read aloud, with a bell rung in remembrance of each life lost.

This year’s event will also include a display of seven red dresses from the Missing, Murdered Indigenous Persons group. The dresses serve as a visual reminder of Indigenous women and people who have been murdered or remain missing.

The event is open to the public, and community members are encouraged to attend in support of victims’ families and in remembrance of those who have been lost.

Family members and friends who would like their loved one remembered during the event may simply attend.