Western Mass. reacts to Newtown tragedy

CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) - Many Western Mass. residents have families and friends in Connecticut, so as the events were unfolding Friday morning at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, CT, many people couldn't believe what they were seeing.

The most shocking part for many -- 20 young, innocent children were killed.

And many people really didn't believe what they were seeing.

Many western Mass. residents watching the story unfold are parents themselves. They have relatives in Connecticut.

Many people told us this morning, they still can't quite comprehend how anyone could kill innocent children.

There will be several vigils today in Western Mass. to commemorate the victims of the shooting.

In Chicopee, there will be a vigil at Ray Ash Park at 5:30PM.

The park is on Arcade Street and there will be candles lit around the play area of the park in honor of the children and other victims killed.

In West Springfield, there will be a vigil at 5:00PM at the First Congregational Church at 20 Lathrop Street.

And in Monson, there will be a vigil at The First Church of Monson from 10am to 1pm.

The Julie Sprague Chapel will be open during these hours for a prayer vigil.

The Church invites you to come and share prayer and support with others to grieve the loss of innocent lives in this horrible and senseless act of violence.

The First Church is located at 5 High Street in Monson.