Political rally turns into prayer vigil for UC Merced victims

MERCED, Calif. (KFSN) -- A planned political rally in Merced turned into an opportunity for the community to come together and pray for the victims of today's attack.

Michael Murphy had planned to announce his run for mayor but instead decided a prayer vigil was more appropriate in light of what occurred on the UC Merced campus. Local pastors showed up and gathered with dozens of other people at city hall. Some people who heard about the stabbings just decided to show up and show their support.

"Pray for the families, to support those kids, to wish everyone well, and to share that with everyone else who is out here for the same reason," said Cindy Kelly, Merced.