SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine (AP) Hundreds gathered for a vigil at a South Portland, Maine, synagogue to commemorate the victims of a shooting at a Pittsburgh synagogue.
Rabbi Jared Saks led about 1,500 at Congregation Bet Ha’am synagogue Tuesday night. Independent U.S. Sen. Angus King joined Portland Mayor Ethan Strimling and city councilors.
Authorities say Robert Gregory Bowers opened fire during a service at Tree of Life Congregation in Pittsburgh Saturday morning, killing 11 and wounding six.
Jewish Community Alliance Executive Director Molly Curren Rowles called the community’s response “remarkable.”
Speakers alluded to President Donald Trump’s rhetoric and the need for action. Saks called on guests to “elect leaders who actually care about people’s lives.” Portland City Councilor Pious Ali said the Trump administration is presiding over “one of the darkest periods” in U.S. history.
