Fordyce residents react to Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders as she tours the town

FORDYCE, Ark. – Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders is making stops in the town of Fordyce to see the impacts left after a mass shooting has devastated the city.

The governor took to X, posting, "There is darkness in this world, but the light of our faith and the resiliency of our people are much stronger. Pray for Fordyce."

Many people are still processing that the June 21, 2024, mass shooting even happened in their hometown.

"You know, I think this might be one of the toughest parts of it, just because the realization that this has really happened is coming true," Cassidy Kelly said.

As funerals are taking place, people are still mourning the loss of four lives.

"It's still kind of plays through my head," Kevin Archer said.

Gov. Sanders spent the day visiting the Dallas County Sheriff's Office, the Dallas County Medical Center, and the Mad Butcher Memorial.

"It means a lot to this small town of Fordyce," Archer said.

Archer's daughter worked at the Mad Butcher but was on maternity leave during the time of the mass shooting. His son also works for the police department.

"I’m thankful that none of my children were injured in any way, but my heart still goes out to victims and the survivors," Archer said.

Archer said seeing the governor sharing hope with Fordyce is all he could ask for.

"She took time out of her schedule to check on the victims, survivors, you know, check on first responders cause all of them played a part in this tragic event that happened last Friday," Archer said.

Kelly says this is not a healing journey that will end after a few days but something that will take months or even years.

"It means a lot for her to be here, I hate it was under these circumstances, but," Kelly said.

Kelly and Archer ask for prayers as they try to stay Fordyce Strong.

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