In-Depth Coverage Highlights Community Resilience After Tragedy
In the wake of the tragic shooting at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, where 19 students and two teachers lost their lives, ABC News took a unique approach by dedicating an entire year to covering the community’s journey. Instead of sending reporters for a brief period, the network kept a team on the ground, resulting in the poignant documentary “It Happened Here — A Year in Uvalde,” which airs Friday on ABC and Saturday on Hulu.
ABC News President Kim Godwin remarked on the profound insights gained from the project, stating, “What we discovered has been profoundly moving and inspiring and, we hope, useful.” The documentary captures the ongoing struggles and resilience of those affected, showcasing heart-wrenching details such as untouched children’s rooms and the emotional weight carried by survivors and families.
Cindy Galli, executive producer of ABC’s investigative unit, emphasized the importance of not allowing a community to be defined solely by its tragedy. The project involved a core team of about a dozen journalists, rotating in and out to build trust and rapport with local residents. This consistent presence allowed them to engage deeply with families, like Kimberly Rubio, whose daughter Lexi was killed in the attack.
The ABC team produced over 200 stories during their time in Uvalde, allowing them to break significant news, including exclusive interviews and insights into police response times during the incident. The documentary also features a harrowing 911 call from a trapped student, adding depth to the narrative.
Despite challenges in accessing law enforcement perspectives, the film highlights the tensions between affected families and those supporting school officials. It also documents the growing activism of community members advocating for legislative change to prevent future tragedies.
Veteran journalist John Quinones noted that the extended coverage provided critical nuances often missed in short-term reporting. The experience has prompted ABC to replicate this model in other communities impacted by mass shootings, such as Buffalo, where a similar tragedy occurred.
Through this comprehensive coverage, ABC News aims to offer a deeper understanding of the long-term effects of gun violence on communities and the resilience of those who endure such unimaginable loss.
