MCGREGOR, Texas — A McGregor church held a prayer gathering for the family of two victims who died in a Thursday morning shooting.
The two victims, Lori and Natalie Aviles, were mother and daughter, according to a GoFundMe statement from their families, who were "innocent victims in an act of gun violence."
In total, five died in the shooting with an officer-involved shooting that followed as well, according to Texas DPS. A suspect is now in custody. The other three victims have not been identified, as of Thursday night.
"Things like this don't happen very much in this town," said Lori's niece, Brittnie Olvera. "You just don't hear that. And you never think it's gonna be close to you."
The Bethlehem Christian Church in McGregor held the gathering for Lori's sons and Natalie's brothers, Ezra and Zion Aviles, according to a Facebook post.
"Now, seeing the boys by themselves...I just know that they've been brought up really well and they're strong boys and they're gonna get through this," Olvera said.
The boys' father passed away of colon cancer in 2020.
Lori served as an associate pastor at the church and Natalie served as a worship leader.
According to the family, Natalie was also formerly named Miss McGregor.
"With our saddest hearts we regret to inform everyone that today’s tragic events ended with Lori Aviles and Natalie Aviles meeting their beloved husband and father Mike Aviles in heaven," said a Facebook post. "The family is setting up a GoFundMe account for the boys, more information to follow."
Bethlehem Christian Church said funeral service announcements for the victims are to be determined.
For the GoFundMe click here.
