Candlelight Vigil Remembers Victims Of Murder In Palm Desert

More than 200 people attended a candlelight vigil Tuesday night at Palm Desert’s Civic Center Park to honor the victims of murder.

“We never forget. We still hurt. We still cry. We still feel the pain. We still relieve the moment,’’ Riverside County District Attorney Paul Zellerbach said.

“It is a journey from being a victim to being a survivor. I commend all of you for taking that journey with all of us this evening.”

As attendees lighted candles, several local officials read aloud the names of more than 200 victims, including Palm Desert City Councilwoman Jan Harnik and Mayor Pro Tem Bob Spiegel.

Rose Madsen of the Palm Desert-based Friends of Murder Victims was the main speaker at the event.

“I stand here today a survivor,’’ said Madsen, whose 20-year-old daughter, Jennifer, was fatally shot in 1994 in Rialto in a drive-by shooting.

The victims’ rights activist said she buried her heart that day and was not able to fully love her surviving two daughters.

She eventually attended a vigil in San Bernardino County about 18 months after the murder and began her road to recover.

“I know that I did not bury my heart when I buried Jen. I buried a piece of my heart. I can give love to my family,’’ Madsen said. “I treasure all wonderful things God gave me.”

Alma Guerrero, 42, of Indio said she attended the vigil to help her grieving process.

“I am just looking for some comfort. It’s pretty recent,’’ she said.

Her son, Jesus Pelon Guerrero , was fatally shot in the back in Indio in February.

“I think seeing a lot of the people here has helped me realize life has to continue,’’ Guerrero said.

Murrieta will host a second vigil at the Southwest Justice Center Wednesday night. Liz Avalos, whose two daughters were murdered, will speak.

On April 14, Riverside’s Victims Memorial Courtyard will be the site of the third vigil. Joseph Bonaminio, who is father of slain Riverside police officer Ryan Bonaminio, will be the main speaker for that ceremony.