Rep. Chu Statement on the Second Anniversary of the Mass Shooting in Monterey Park, California

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today marks two years since the tragic mass shooting at Star Dance Studio in Monterey Park, California, where a gunman claimed the lives of 11 people and left 9 others seriously injured. The assailant then moved to Lai Lai Ballroom in Alhambra, attempting to continue his deadly rampage. His actions were thwarted by Brandon Tsay, whose bravery prevented further loss of life. This horrific event, the deadliest shooting in Los Angeles County's history, unfolded during celebrations on the eve of Lunar New Year in a predominantly Asian American community known as the nation's first suburban Chinatown.

Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28) released the following statement to commemorate the day:

“Today marks two years since the tragic Monterey Park mass shooting, a heartbreaking event that has permanently changed the community I have called home for 39 years. Today, I mourn and honor the eleven lives lost, all of Asian descent, and hold their memory close. My heart is with the victims’ families and survivors as they continue to navigate the grief and trauma of that day. What should have been a joyous Lunar New Year celebration—a cherished time for the Asian American community—was tragically overshadowed by a night of senseless violence that altered our community forever.

“We have the power to honor the memory of those we’ve lost by passing comprehensive gun safety reform that will prevent future gun violence. That’s why I will soon reintroduce my bills, the Language Access to Gun Violence Prevention Strategies Act and the FLAG Act. Together, these bills would help families and community members, including those with limited English proficiency, to navigate the “red flag law” process to temporarily disarm individuals who present a danger to themselves and others. 

“We will never forget the victims in Monterey Park. Today and every day, I honor those we lost:

Valentino Marcos Alvero

Hongying Jian

Yu-Lun Kao

LiLan Li

Ming Wei Ma

Mymy Nhan

Diana Man Ling Tom

Muoi Dai Ung

Chia Ling Yau

Wen-Tau Yu

Xiujuan Yu”