Following gunfire that left eight people dead and seven others injured at an Allen mall, including Daniela and Sofia Mendoza, many residents of North Texas grieved. According to authorities, Mauricio Garcia, the alleged shooter, was fatally shot by an officer present.

Also Read: What Arizona Cardinals star Kyler Murray said about Allen Outlet Mall shooting in Dallas, Texas

Who were Daniela Mendoza and Sofia Mendoza?

Sofia and Daniela Mendoza, two sisters who were in second and fourth grades, respectively, were identified by the district as the two victims. Wylie ISD has stated that their mother, Ilda, is currently in a critical state.

The heartbreaking news of two elementary school pupils who passed away in a shooting was announced to the community by the Wylie Independent School District in an email on Monday. The two girls were described as “rays of sunshine” by Cox Elementary School principal Krista Wilson, according to an email from the institution.

Also Read: Who was Mauricio Garcia, Allen Outlet Mall, Dallas, Texas mass shooting suspect?

“We love your babies, we love them so much,” Vinson wrote. “Our love for our kiddos and each other will get us through this. Daniela and Sofia will not be forgotten. Hug your kids, and tell them you love them.”

On Saturday, just after 3:30 p.m., shots were fired at Allen Premium Outlets, which are located in the 800 block of West Stacy Road next to U.S. Highway 75. According to Medical City Healthcare, of the seven further injured patients, three were in critical condition, two were in fair condition, and one was in good condition. The location of the final patient’s hospital and the nature of their illness were unknown.

Also Read: Why Allen Outlet Mall, Dallas, Texas shooting has brought up mental health vs second amendment debate

On Monday and Tuesday, more counselors and support personnel will be present on the Cox Elementary School campus and will remain available to kids, faculty, and families. “Students may respond in many different ways to this news, even if they didn’t know Daniela and Sofia. Please let us know if you notice any changes in behavior or have concerns about how your child is responding to this situation,” Wilson said in an email.