Our Response to the Mass Shooting at VTA

We are all deeply saddened by the mass shooting that took place today at a Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) facility in San Jose.

The VTA is a public agency staffed by essential workers, where many union members work, including those from our own AFSCME family.

It is a tragedy any time violence happens at the workplace. But this shooting hits close to home because the victims are our union sisters and brothers.

Throughout the day, our council’s leadership—along with other union leaders—have been rushing to gather support for all the victims and our members in the area.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, families and workers affected by the shooting that took place at VTA today,” said Charles Allen, the executive director of AFSCME Council 57. “As a union, we stand with working people every day. We’re especially standing with you today.”

While all the details of the shooting are still unknown, here is what we know so far:

  • According to news reports, nine people are dead, including the shooter, who was a VTA employee.
  • We still do not know whether any of our AFSCME members were among the victims.
  • The VTA light rail yard where the shooting took place is located a few blocks away from our San Jose office. The area remains an active site and is closed to the public while an investigation continues.
  • An information line has been set up for families and friends of VTA workers. The number is 408-209-8356. Counseling services have also been set up at the Santa Clara County building at 70 West Hedding Street in San Jose.
  • The San Jose community has planned a vigil for the victims of the shooting on Thursday, May 27, at 6pm at San José City Hall Plaza, located at 200 East Santa Clara Street, in San José.

As more information becomes available, we will provide details to our members.

In the meantime, let’s continue to send lots of love, solidarity and support to our members in the San Jose area.

Working Partnerships USA, one of our community partners, has set up a website where people can make donations in support of the victims and their families. Learn more here.