We’re still reeling from the shock of Christina Grimmie’s unfair death.
Prior to her tragic death on Friday night (10th June), the 22-year-old singer had just wrapped up her concert with her band, Before You Exit, at the Plaza Live Theatre and was in the midst of signing autographs and meeting fans when she was shot. This morning, the Orlando Police Department has positively identified the assailant who gunned down Grimmie as Kevin James Loibl.
The Mirror reported that the pop singer is believed to have been shot twice in the head. Although Grimmie’s brother, Marcus, was able to tackled Loibl to the ground and prevented further innocent deaths (there were 120 people in the venue at the time), the shooter successfully turned the gun on himself.
Police reveal that the 27-year-old shooter, who possessed 2 handguns, additional ammunition and a large hunting knife, was from St. Petersburg, Florida. “He came here to commit this crime and had plans to travel back to where he came from,” said chief officer John Mina.
OPD can confirm 27 year old Kevin James Loibl, suspect who shot Christina Grimmie, is from St Petersburg, FL pic.twitter.com/iN6RUi3VRx
— Orlando Police (@OrlandoPolice) June 11, 2016
Mina added that concert hall’s security guards had search bags and purses of concertgoers when they arrive at the entrance, but did not use metal detectors and there were no off-duty guards at the time. This explains why Loibl was able to slipped passed security in the first place.
Police are currently searching through Loibl’s mobile phone and social media accounts to look for his motive for killing Grimmie.
Sometimes God allows terrible things to happen in your life and you don't know why. But that doesn't mean you should stop trusting Him.
— Christina Grimmie (@TheRealGrimmie) February 21, 2013
It saddens us to think that this talented singer had such a bright future in front of her. R.I.P Christina, we love you.
Sources: Extra TV, Heavy, USA Today.
