‘It really hurt’: Nashville Jewish community reeling after Australia mass shooting

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - A mass shooting in Australia has had a ripple effect across the world.

In Nashville Sunday, dozens marked the start of Hanukkah and also to reflected on the tragedy.

“That was the first thing I was met with when I woke up this morning. It really hurt because I was planning on coming here today and it scared me,” an attendee told WSMV4.

At least 15 people were killed and dozens injured in a shooting during a Jewish event in Australia.

Rabbi Yitzchok Tiechtel told WSMV he knew one of the victims.

“For me it hits home, the rabbi that was murdered, his brother is a friend of mine,” Tiechtel said. “His daughter actually studies in school with my daughter. It was definitely a hard day to talk about your kids. She says, ‘My friend is not going to have a father to wish happy Hanukkah.’”

In the wake of the shooting, Jewish institutions throughout Nashville have increased security and have been coordinating with local and federal law enforcement agencies.

Metro Nashville Police officers were seen posted outside of The Chabad Center for Jewish Awareness.

“Us together with the of Nashville Jewish community are definitely vigilant, and our security is our top priority, and we do everything we can. At the end of the day, there’s a big God in Heaven, and we pray that everybody stay safe,” Tiechtel said.

Nashville mayor Freddie O’Connell was among the many people in attendance. He expressed condolences and reaffirmed his commitment to embracing the Jewish community.