Neighbors remember Tops shooting victims during their annual run

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) – Delaware Park hosted the second annual “Turning Tragedy into Triumph” – a half marathon and 5K honoring the lives lost in the 2022 Tops mass shooting.

Neighbors pinned their bibs on Friday to support Legacy 5.14 and the 5.14 Memorial Scholarship.

Cashell Durham, sister of Aaron Salter, the security guard who lost his life trying to stop the shooter, said the race was an event her brother would have enjoyed.

“He would love it,” Durham said. “He was always out in the community and telling me about different things that were going on.”

The race included runners, walkers, children and even four-legged friends.

“It’s a happy and sad moment,” said Fred Luongo, a runner. “We can enjoy our company together and honor those who have passed away.”

Luongo said he often sees Salter directing traffic at local races he attends.

“He was on traffic control and was a personality of all races – a real, genuine human being and just a nice guy,” Luongo said. “Always there and always to keep us safe.”