On Wednesday evening, nine people were senselessly gunned down during bible study at Charleston's Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church.
The nine victims killed range in age from 26 to 87-years-old, and all were African American. Among the dead are reverends from the church, the bible study leader, and a recent college graduate.
Senator Tim Scott, the first black Republican U.S. senator elected in South Carolina since reconstruction, issued a statement on Thursday, "horrendous crime is not only reflective of the racial climate in South Carolina, but the United States, and doesn’t have a simple political solution."
These are the faces of the Charleston massacre.
Reverend Clementa Pinckney is remembered for his work in and out of the church. The state senator came from a long line of preachers.
Reverend Daniel Simmons attended the bible study every week. The 74-year-old baptized, married and eulogized hundreds of church members over the years.
Reverend Sharonda Coleman-Singleton coached the high school track team, and had three kids at home. She was 45-years-old.
Bible study leader Myra Thompson.
Reverend Depayne Middleton-Doctor was a mother of four children. She sang in the choir.
Ethel Lee Lance worked at the church for more than 30 years. Her grandson describes her as the "heart of the family."
Cynthia Hurd worked at the public library for more than 30 years. A library now set to be re-named in her honor.
Susie Jackson was a member of the South Carolina order of the Eastern Star, and is the oldest victim at age 87.
Tywanza Jackson was Susie Jackson's nephew. The 26-year-old is the youngest victim, and died trying to save his aunt.
South Carolina church leaders spreading this message today, "Our faith is stronger than fear."
Meanwhile donations pouring into the church's website.
