This morning, hundreds rallied in support of anti-LGBT victims Kristene Chapa and Mollie Olgin outside the courthouse where their attacker had a pre-trial hearing.
In 2012, after being in a relationship for five months, Kristene Chapa and Mollie Olgin were attacked at Violet Andrews Park in Portland, Texas. The two were shot in the head, execution style. Mollie died at the scene but Kristene was rushed to the hospital with head injuries.
The rally was one of the first public appearances Kristene made. Her time since the attack has been spent recovering amid physical therapy appointments in Houston and time in recovery with her family.
This was the first pro-LGBT rally to be held in Sinton, Texas. Local media covered the anticipation of the event, including the Corpus Christi Caller Times. Local NBC affiliate KRISTV reported on the rally minutes before it was to begin.
And then the rally began. The Corpus Christi Caller Times photographer Michael Zamora captured images from the morning. Participants got to hear from supporters and Kristene herself, and were reminded that she still has significant medical bills. A Go Fund Me page has been set up to help defray medical costs, and all are encouraged to give generously.
Supporters of Kristene Chapa and Mollie Olgin start to gather outside the county courthouse in Sinton. pic.twitter.com/W55upiFFa1
— Michael Zamora (@CallerZamora) November 14, 2014
Kristene Chapa and sister Patricia join supporters outside the county courthouse in Sinton. pic.twitter.com/HU5blsRAMt
— Michael Zamora (@CallerZamora) November 14, 2014
Demonstrators continue to wait outside the courthouse. David Strickland still awaiting his court appearance inside. pic.twitter.com/G6JwhCUbx4
— Michael Zamora (@CallerZamora) November 14, 2014
At the hearing, Strickland's lawyers asked for a delay, and the next pre-trial hearing has been set for February 6.
Even if you aren't in Texas, You can support Kristene and Mollie now by sharing GLAAD's graphic, taking to social media to call for #justice4KrisandMollie, and donating to the Chapa family's medical expense fund.