The tragic shooting in Las Vegas has stretched its sad arms into the Disney community. Yesterday reports began to trickle in of news about current and former Disneyland cast members who were murdered or wounded in the attack.
Last night, Disney CEO Bob Iger confirmed the news in a statement:
Our hearts go out to everyone impacted by the tragic events in Las Vegas the victims of violence, the witnesses, and the friends and families mourning loved ones. We are especially heartbroken over the loss of one of our own to this unconscionable and senseless act. Carrie Barnette had been a member of the Disney California Adventure culinary team for ten years and was beloved by her friends and colleagues. Our thoughts are with her family, along with our support, during this incredibly difficult time. Another valued Disney cast member, Jessica Milam, was also seriously injured and we are praying for her recovery.
Update: Local news is reporting that former New Orleans Square food and beverage cast member Rocio Guillen Rocha was a victim of the Las Vegas shooting. She had just given birth for her fourth child a few weeks ago.
I live in Orlando where this is all too familiar coming a little over a year after the Pulse nightclub shooting. Another event that tragically took the lives of many employees of local attractions, including Walt Disney World. Universal Studios even put up a beautiful in park tribute to those killed in the attack.
More than 59 deaths and 500 injuries resulted from the still senseless actions of gunman who let loose a barrage of bullets on concert attendees in Las Vegas. We at The Disney Blog extend our deepest condolences to those involved, their friends, co-workers, and families.