Yakima Dealing With Rash of Homicides

YAKIMA, Wash. (AP) — When local ministers performed a Moment of Blessing ceremony after two women were fatally shot in downtown Yakima two weeks ago, the Rev. Ken Jones thought it would be some time before another such ceremony was needed.

But after three more homicides over the weekend, the group has scheduled more blessing ceremonies.

Civic leaders say the deaths should be a call for the community to come together and find solutions to the problems that are at the root of the crimes.

The Yakima Herald-Republic said a step in that direction is planned for Thursday evening at The Seasons Performance Hall, where the Safe Yakima Valley coalition is planning a gathering for residents and law enforcement to talk about crime.