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Vigil marks one year since QT clerk's murder

Posted at 8:07 AM, Jan 22, 2016
and last updated 2016-01-22 10:11:02-05

Dozens showed up to an overnight candlelight vigil to honor the life of a slain QT clerk.

Grant Ronnebeck was 21 years old when he was gunned down January 22, 2015.

Grant’s father, Steve, spoke to the crowd who gathered at the QT in Mesa, located near Stapley and Broadway. Along with mourners, Congressman Matt Salmon also showed up, as did Pinal County Sheriff Paul Babeu.

Sheriff Babeu told ABC15 that Grant’s death “is a tragedy.”

Since Ronnebeck’s death, his family has been pushing for better immigration laws, especially when it comes to undocumented immigrants with criminal backgrounds.

Ronnebeck’s alleged shooter is Apolinar Altamirano, 30, who may face the death penalty in the case.

Mesa police officials say Altamirano shot Ronnebeck over a pack of cigarettes.

Steve Ronnebeck says every day since his son was murdered has been like a nightmare.

“It's been pretty awful. We miss him every day. There's times where you still think he's home or he's going to come home and then the realization that he's not coming home. (It) hits you,” Ronnebeck says.