It was a day of remembrance for those lost at the hand of crime. Baltimore County hosted this year's Maryland Statewide Memorial Services on Sunday at Catonsville High School.
For some, it helped continue the grieving and healing process. More than 2,200 people murdered in the Northern region of the state since 1985 were honored.
This year's theme was "strength, resilience, justice." Three things families left behind are all searching for.
"I just want the killing to stop," said Yolanda Williams. "I know I'm not the only one going through it and it's really important because I just want to keep my brother's memory alive."
For the last 28 years, the state has honored those who've been murdered throughout Maryland.
"It brings back memories that was my brother he got murdered two years ago and I miss him," Williams told ABC2.
Her story is similar to many of those grieving for family or friends lost too soon. Robin Grant lost her son and brother within months of each other. For her, the recognition helps with the healing.
"It's a good thing that we all can come together as one and represent our loved ones," Grant said.
Through prayer, music and memorials, families got another chance to pay tribute and grieve together.
"It's a lot easier to talk to people who actually know what I'm going through," Grant said.
Baltimore County State's Attorney Scott Shellenberger hosted the event. He said while many of the victims' cases are closed, it's never over for the families.
"We're here today to have family members who have to live with this tragedy everyday for the rest of their lives -- we're here to honor them," Shellenberger said.
And the families were grateful for that recognition.
"It makes me feel wonderful that all these people are actually out here," Grant said.
The event acknowledged victims from Baltimore City and Baltimore, Anne Arundel, Cecil and Howard counties.
Sunday's memorial coincided with the beginning of National Crime Victims' Rights Week.
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