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UCI MIND statement on Laguna Woods shooting

We at UCI MIND are heartbroken by the events of Sunday May 15 at Simpson Hall at Geneva Presbyterian Church on El Toro Road in Laguna Woods. We know very well this area, this church, and the community it serves. We have spoken previously at this very spot in partnership with the Irvine Taiwanese Presbyterian Church, sharing information about brain health and recruiting participants to our studies.

All violence is senseless. Violence against people because of their race, ethnicity, political stances or other group membership is an act of hatred and even more tragic and painful.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the people whose lives were forever changed by this disgraceful and horrific act. We are grateful to attendees at the Geneva Presbyterian Church whose remarkable bravery saved lives. One hero, Dr. John Cheng, lost his own life in his efforts to stop the assailant. Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and patients.

We will return to Simpson Hall. We stand in solidarity with this community and will do everything we can to contribute to their healing and recovery.