Two individuals who were tragically killed by a rogue Army serviceman during an EDM festival in Washington have been identified as Brandy Escamilla, 29, and Josilyn Ruiz, 26, who were deeply in love and planning their wedding.
The couple was walking through the festival's campground outside Gorge Amphitheatre when they were shot and killed by James Kelly, 26, a soldier stationed at a nearby Army base, according to the police report
Kelly allegedly opened fire randomly into the crowd at the "Beyond Wonderland" event, resulting in the death of the couple and injuries to three others. Escamilla was fatally shot in the head, while Ruiz succumbed to a gunshot wound to her torso.
Friends and family described them as soulmates who had met in high school 11 years ago. They had relocated to Seattle from Southern California and were embracing an adventurous lifestyle together.
The couple, both travel nurses, had extended their stay in Seattle after falling in love with the area's outdoor activities. They enjoyed exploring new experiences and had proposed to each other.
Their love for music was also evident, making their tragic end even more heartbreaking. Despite the devastating loss, their loved ones cherish the memories of their vibrant personalities and the impact they had on everyone they encountered.
James Kelly, an active duty Army service member stationed at Joint Base Lewis McCord, has been identified as the alleged gunman. He was attending the concert when he carried out the shooting, according to law enforcement officials.
Lily Luksich, a 20-year-old attendee, was also injured in the incident, along with Andrew Caudra, 31, and Lori Williams, 61, who was part of the event's crowd management team.
Kelly was apprehended by an undercover Moses Lake Police officer who was posing as a concert-goer. The officer fired at Kelly, injuring him before taking him into custody.
Kelly is currently held at Grant County Jail and is facing charges of murder, assault, and domestic violence assault. The investigation into the incident continues as the community mourns the loss of Brandy Escamilla and Josilyn Ruiz, a couple whose love and spirit touched many lives.
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