Dean Swihart speaks at vigil for Jackie Walorski at Jimtown High School

 

BAUGO TOWNSHIP, Ind. -- Hundreds gathered in front of Jimtown High School on Thursday night to mourn, remember, and pray after U.S. Congresswoman Jackie Walorski, her two staffers Zachery Potts and Emma Thomson, and Nappanee native Edith Schmucker were killed in a car crash on Wednesday.

Walorski's husband, Dean Swihart, spoke publicly at the vigil for the first time since his wife's tragic death.

"I could not be more proud of the life my wife has lived. She lived her faith. She knew who she was. She wasn't going to be talked down, she wasn't going to be backed down," Swihart said.

Family members found comfort in prayer, as Walorski was a staunch Christian.

Residents from around Michiana paid their respects, with many veterans attending the vigil to honor the Congresswoman who fought hard for them.

Funeral and burial proceedings for the victims have not yet been announced.