Supporters of a CEO who was critically injured in a workplace shooting in Chicago’s Loop gathered at his church Sunday to pray for his recovery.
“There’s got to be something done to stop this and turn the tide on this increasing violence,” said Matt Larson, a member of the First Presbyterian Church.
ArrowStream CEO Steven LaVoie was shot twice by a recently demoted executive at his downtown office Thursday morning. He remains in critical condition at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. The gunman, identified as Tony DeFrances, fatally shot himself after shooting LaVoie.
“Our hearts go out to the [LaVoie] family and go out to the family of person who took his life,” said churchgoer Lynn Kust.
On Saturday, community residents began hanging red ribbons on trees in suburban LaGrange.
“If you live in the LaGrange area, you may notice red ribbons tied on trees today,” his family posted on the community website Caring Bridge. “Red is Steve’s favorite color and these ribbons are a beautiful showing of love for Steve and his family from the whole community. Thank you – it means the world to us.”
On Sunday, family members said LaVoie remained in critical condition, but was making some small improvements.
“We need to stop this and find away because we just can't go on like this,” said church member Elaine Summerfield.
