This story originally was published April 15, 2016.
KALAMAZOO, Mich. -- The first person hurt in a mass shooting in southwestern Michigan says she can't hate the man charged in the rampage and seeks to forgive him.
Tiana Carruthers spoke publicly for the first time Thursday at the Kalamazoo hospital where she'd been treated after being shot four times. Six people died in the Feb. 20 shootings. Carruthers and a teenager were wounded. "So I just want to say to other families that I feel for you. I can't say I know how you feel, everybody grieves different. But, it's connected us in so many ways. I feel like we're family. I'm excited about meeting them.”
The 25-year-old says she's trying to walk and use her "completely reconstructed" arm.
Authorities say Carruthers was at an apartment complex playground with several children when a driver approached. Sensing trouble, she moved between the car and children, telling them to run home. Carruthers says it's "what any parent would do."
Tiana says that she is grateful to God, the community, friends, and family. "Thank you everyone. I love you.”
Jason Dalton was charged with murder and attempted murder, and ordered to undergo a competency exam.
