Mass shooting in Monterey Park: here’s what we know about the victims so far

MONTEREY PARK, California. As community members mourn the 10 lives lost in the Monterey Park mass shooting, we learn more about the victims and survivors.

Witnesses say about 50 people were in the dance studio when an armed man opened fire Saturday night. Five women and five men, who ranged in age from 50 to 70, were among the dead, according to the Los Angeles County coroner.

The rest have not yet been officially identified by the authorities, but friends have identified one of the dead as dance instructor Ming Wei Ma. He was known for his patience and understanding.

Friends say he gave his life trying to save others.

“Mr. Ma, who is very much loved and respected in the dance community and has been doing it for over 20 years – he tried to stop the shooter and passed away,” said friend Eric Chen.

A survivor of the shooting, who identified herself as Shally, was dancing with her longtime friend and dance partner when a gunman entered the Star ballroom dance studio and opened fire.

She said she grabbed her dance partner and hid under the table. Her 62-year-old friend, whom she does not want to name, was shot in the back and saved her during a shootout.

When the shooter left, she tried to wake her dance partner, but realized he had been shot at.

Meanwhile, seven of the 10 injured remained in the hospital Sunday night, Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna said.

The sheriff said the department generally does not disclose the names of hospitals that treat violent crime victims. But in this case, he says, the disturbing incident reinforces the decision to keep the information under wraps.

“Someone called one of these hospitals to say something like they want to go and finish the job,” Luna said. “It’s absolutely terrible.”

“Please, these victims and survivors have so much to do. Let’s not hurt them any more.”

All families and victims affected by the shooting are urged to contact the Langley Senior Center at 400 W. Emerson Avenue, home of the Emergency Response Team.

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