Many said they didn't know the victims personally but all have been touched by the tragic accident. "It's a big tragedy. It really hit everybody," said Tillie Gonzalez of Orosi.
"We want these families to know we care. We're a tight knit community," said Carol Knoy of Dinuba.
Wednesday's prayer service was organized by a group of more than 20 faith based organizations. The vigil included messages from Dinuba's mayor as well as Carlos and Jennifer Salazar's pastor. The couple lost five children in the crash. Three other teens in a car being chased by police also died. But the Salazars' pastor says the couple isn't pointing fingers, and neither should the community. He reached out to the other parents who also lost their children. "You're just as important. Your pain is just as intense. No one is trying to minimize what you are going through. We recognize, acknowledge, and repect your pain," said Pastor Robert Hooks.
As people prayed for the grieving families, they also reached into their pockets to help out. Nearly $4,000 was raised during the prayer service and organizers say it will go to all the families affected by the tragedy.
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