Pittsburghers come together to remember lives lost on anniversary of Tree of Life synagogue shooting

PITTSBURGH — On Thursday, the Pittsburgh community came together to remember the 11 lives lost inside the Tree of Life Synagogue.

During the ceremony commemorating the four-year mark, people from across our region used prayer and song to honor those who lost their lives that day back in 2018.

Alan Hausman, a first responder and member of the Tree of Life Synagogue, took a moment during the event to recognize the first responders who risked their lives to help others on what was the deadliest attack on the Jewish community in the United States.

Hausman also recalled the moment he heard the life-changing news.

“I was in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, visiting my parents,” said Hausman. “I received the page and I saw the address and before I read the rest of it, I knew that was our address and it’s a pretty big feeling of helplessness.”

Barbara Caplan and Stephen Cohen with New Light Congregation tell Channel 11 that since the attack, they believe people who call Pittsburgh home have become more loving and accepting.

“Things have changed in the four years since the shooting because now when people say hateful, disgusting things, there are folks who will come out and stand up and say we will not have this,” said Cohen.

“There is a voice today, you’re right where there wasn’t so much years ago. There is a voice. People aren’t just shrugging their shoulders and letting it roll off,” said Caplan.

Mayor Ed Gainey was also in attendance alongside Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald and Councilwoman Erika Strassburger. Together they read a prayer for our county.

“I’ve been here every single year. I have not missed a year. I don’t believe anyone should miss this day,” said Gainey. “This is very significant in our city. We will continue to honor and continue to build and continue to love one another.”

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