In 2003, sniper-style shootings at area gas stations had everyone in fear of going to the pump to fill up. Now, a man is behind bars who many believe is responsible for those deaths.
Nine years later, families of those victims gather for the first time, knowing they can have some kind of closure.
The families gathered to grieve for Jeannie Patton, Gary Carrier Jr. And Oakey Meadows.
Shawn Lester pleaded guilty to killing Jeannie Patton as part of deal with prosecutors. Still the pain is strong.
"This is what was took from her, and this is what was took from us. You can see how close of a family we were. And you can see she always lit up a room, or even a picture, with her beautiful smile," said Karen Mance, one victim's sister.
These families hold their annual vigil at the Speedway in Campbell's Creek, where Patton was shot and killed. Through the years though, it's also become a place for something else.
Gary Carrier's sister, Mary Hardwick said, "We share something, kind of feel a family connection there. We've been there nine years for each other. It's hard, we kind of support each other. I've got close with them."
Hardwick said she plans on speaking at Lester's sentencing.
Lester pleaded guilty to second degree murder in the death of Jeannie Patton and for that, he could spend up to 40 years behind bars.
The deal did not include Gary Carrier Jr. or Oakey Meadows.
Shawn Lester's sentencing is scheduled for Aug. 31.
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