NEWTOWN, Conn. (ABC 4 News) – Robbie Parker, an Ogden native, spoke became one of the first parents to speak out about the loss of losing his daughter in Friday’s school shooting in Connecticut.
The Parkers moved out east only eight months ago. Emilie Parker, 6, was one of 20 first graders and six adults shot and killed at Sandy Hook Elementary in Newtown.
"She was the type of person who could just light up the room,” said Robbie Parker. “She always had something kind to say about anybody and her love, and the strength that she gave us, and the example that she showed us is remarkable. She is an incredible person, and i am so blessed to be her dad.”
Parker said he was at work when he got the call there was a shooting at Emilie’s school.
“I didn't think it was that big of a deal at first,” he said. “I thought with the first reports that were coming in, it didn't sound like it was going to be as tragic as it was, and as we were given information, it started to settle in.”
Robbie Parker says he holds no anger and that his thoughts are with the other grieving families.
“It is a horrific tragedy and we want everybody to know that our hearts and our prayers go out to them. This includes the family of the shooter.”
Emilie's loss is being felt here in Utah... her extended family still lives in Ogden. Her aunt said in the coming days and weeks the family will be praying for understanding.
“Emilie Alice Parker was the sweetest little girl I've ever known, my children are grieving, my siblings across the country are grieving, and we're just devastated that someone so beautiful and perfect is no longer going to be in our lives.”
If you would like to donate to the family, an account has been set up at America First Credit Union under “Emilie Parker Memorial Account.” The account number is 9056862.
