Aunt of Victim in 2014 Shooting Advocates for Justice at 2024 DNC Convention

Advocating for Justice

In an emotionally charged moment, Melody McFadden stood before a global audience at the 2024 Democratic National Convention to highlight the devastating impact of gun violence and advocate for justice.

McFadden’s family has known the tragic reality of gun violence firsthand. Her mother was murdered by an abusive partner, and in 2014, McFadden’s 22-year-old niece, Sandy Patrice, was shot and killed during a vacation.

“Incidents broke out, and shooting began. They targeted the crowds,” McFadden recounted. “My niece, my sister’s only child, was among the victims.”

Cold Case Sparks Awareness

McFadden’s call for action comes from a heartbreaking place. Ten years after Sandy’s death, the case remains unsolved and has recently been dubbed a ‘cold case’ by the Myrtle Beach Police. They have little added information beyond what was evident a decade ago,

“I refuse to let Sandy be forgotten. I’m going to make her name known globally. I’m going to share her story. I’m dedicated to saving lives,” securing her resolve, McFadden spoke with a fervor derived from a decade of waiting for justice.

Supporting Survivors and Fighting to End Gun Violence

McFadden is actively working to support others who have experienced similar tragedies and aims to end gun violence, a mission that she strongly emphasized during her speech.

“I am unyielding in my commitment to supporting survivors. We will persist in our efforts to end gun violence. We’re utilizing every platform available to raise awareness. There’s no door we won’t walk through in this pursuit,” she pledged.