The 15-Yr-Old who died blocking his classroom door from the Santa Fe Shooter had a favorite Bible verse.
The tragic shooting at Santa Fe High School in Texas that killed 10 on May 18, revealed several stories of heroism.
One is Christian, Riley Garcia.
According to the family’s pastor, Keenan Smith, the 15-year-old showed remarkable courage as he exerted every last ounce of strength he had to block an art classroom door and shield his peers from the shooter.
Pastor Smith told CNN, “He was against the door trying to help his teacher, trying to help another student, and trying to shield the others there,”
Tragically, it was a bold act that would cost Garcia his own life.
Smith added, “He was holding the door shut when the shooter was trying to gain access to that art room, the shooter shot through the door, taking his life.”
The pastor shared that he was spending time with Garcia’s family on Friday night when students were praising the brave teen for saving their lives. They knew Garcia certainly took a bullet that was meant for them.
Smith, who baptized Garcia, said, “He was a good kid, he was compassionate, he was loving, caring and caring for other people.”
A memorial service for Garcia was held on Monday at Crosby Church where his picture was featured alongside his favorite scripture:
He says, “Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.” ~Psalm 46:10