HIGHLAND PARK, Illinois (CBS) — Thursday marks the second anniversary of the deadly mass shooting during the Fourth of July parade in Highland Park. It is the first time the north suburb has hosted the parade in its entirety since the tragedy.
City officials said the day was meticulously planned, with space for both remembrance and family traditions. They said the community is encouraged to focus on their love for their city.
The day will begin at 10:00 am with a commemoration ceremony, during which the mayor and the city poet will speak.
The Independence Day Parade, with a new route through downtown at Laurel Avenue and First Street, will follow at 1 p.m., and the day will end with what Highland Park is calling “Fourth Fest,” a family-friendly celebration in Sunset Woods Park at 1:30 p.m.
The parade route will be slightly different than in 2022, as it will bypass the site of the shooting.
City officials said they took into account feedback from victims, neighbors and businesses when planning the day’s commemoration.
This year’s theme is “Sweet Home Highland Park”.
The mother of the youngest survivor of the shooting, Cooper Roberts, died on Wednesday. shared an update on his health journey. The 10-year-old was paralyzed from the waist down in the 2022 shooting. His twin brother was also injured.
“730 days since he could run and chase his brother around the backyard, climb on the playground equipment at school or in the park, play on his soccer team, run the bases at the baseball field, or jump on his bed or the couches in my living room, or play at a trampoline park,” Keely Roberts said. “Physically, you’re constantly reminded that you’re not the same person you were before.”
Keely Roberts said her family will likely never attend the parade in Highland Park again.
Last week, shooting suspect Robert Crimo III rejected a plea deal on murder charges, surprising many victims and survivors.
He is expected to appear in court in February next year
Meanwhile, the city said security measures are in place ahead of the Fourth of July commemoration ceremony and festivities, including metal detectors and bag checks.
