10 heartbreaking stories from gun violence survivors in America

Former Berkeley Barb reporter Gabrielle fled from a slow-moving van after being robbed and raped on a quiet street. She was able to open the door and roll out of the van before he shot her in the back.

Donning guerilla fatigues and camouflage to complete his “mission,” the former Army man ambushed Kieba in the parking lot of their apartment complex. She was his fiancée and the mother of his son. He had never acted violently toward her prior to this incident.

Martha, a student at the University of South Carolina, was paralyzed when a gang member fired his gun as she and her friends were waiting for a taxi.

Minister Ellis was hit during an armed robbery at a gas station. The community activist now teaches drama and is a little league coach in New Jersey.

Early one evening Sahar was strolling through Times Square with her cousin when she was hit by a police officer who was pursuing someone else when he fired.

Droke was shot eight times, including twice in the head. When the shooter fled to his car, Droke fired at him with his licensed handgun. He credits having a gun with his survival.

Jasbir was cooking for the congregation at a Sikh temple when a white supremacist and former Army veteran entered the temple and opened fire. Six people were killed and four were injured. The shooter killed himself after shooting at a police officer on the scene.

Antonius was struck by a random bullet as he walked down a crowded Brooklyn street. The intended target was the ex-girlfriend of the shooter.

Hobson was shot through the pelvis with an AK-47. Stopping to drop someone off, the car she was riding in was besieged by a hail of bullets. She lay on top of a toddler, who was also in the car, to protect the child. Hobson now walks with a limp. A gang initiation is believed to be the motive.