Police announced yesterday that they are “fairly certain” they found the remains of Virginia Tech student Morgan Harrington, who went missing in October 2009. Awaiting confirmation, family and the
Tech community will be able to finally feel a sense of closure — albeit a sad one. Sometimes the hope and faith we have for a near-happy ending is not rewarded.
The search for Harrington has been long and emotionally draining on everyone involved, and while the search may end with this sad outcome, there is relief in knowing
that she may finally be laid to rest.
We are relieved we may be a step closer to closure with Harrington’s story, but it is necessary to not allow that relief overshadow the need for all answers. This will remain so until all the questions are answered.
We can’t forget that there are still families trying to reach their own conclusion. Heidi Childs and David Metzler’s deaths are still being
investigated and their families face the same strife as Harrington’s do now. As a community, Tech must continue to support the friends and family of Childs, Metzler and Harrington, as well the investigators who are dedicated to bringing justice for the three.
The university as a whole is also involved in two families’ mission to bring closure to their own personal connections to the April 16, 2007 shootings.
Regardless of if you agree with the April 16 lawsuit against the university, the insistence on all families’ parts to continue to seek answers and explanations has resulted in revisions and developments on why and how the shootings occurred.
This is a lesson to those faced with tragedy. Those who knew Morgan Harrington haven’t stopped searching for explanations since October 17, and hopefully with yesterday’s announcement, they can find at least one.
The editorial board is comprised of Debra Houchins, Sara Mitchell, Peter Velz and Bethany Buchanan.