The Round Rock community is in mourning after the tragic loss of Ara Duke, a beloved local woman who was killed during the Juneteenth celebration shooting. What was intended to be a joyous weekend of commemorating Juneteenth and celebrating Father’s Day turned into a nightmare for the Duke family and the entire Round Rock area.
Christopher Duke, Ara’s husband, recounted the horrific moments of Saturday night at Round Rock’s Juneteenth festival. He had briefly stepped away to use the restroom when gunshots erupted, initially mistaking the sounds for fireworks. The realization that it was gunfire quickly set in, shattering the festive atmosphere and forever altering his life. “Was just trying to enjoy the evening festival, and a gunshot took somebody away from me,” Christopher shared, encapsulating the sudden and devastating nature of the event.
Ara Duke was one of two individuals who tragically lost their lives in the shooting at the Round Rock Juneteenth event. While the full circumstances are still under investigation, authorities have indicated that an altercation preceded the gunfire, turning innocent bystanders into victims. In addition to the fatalities, fourteen other individuals sustained injuries but are expected to recover.
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Ara Duke
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Those who knew Ara describe her as an incredibly generous and compassionate person, particularly devoted to the children she worked with at IDEA Public School’s Rundberg campus. Her commitment extended far beyond the classroom, as she passionately supported her students both professionally and personally. Ara’s dedication to the youth of Round Rock was a defining aspect of her life.
The Boys and Girls Clubs of the Austin Area (BGCAA) expressed profound sorrow over Ara Duke’s passing. In her role as the primary school liaison at IDEA Rundberg, Ara was instrumental in connecting students with the vital resources and support systems offered by BGCAA. The organization is providing mental health support to its staff deeply affected by the loss of their colleague and friend.
BGCAA CEO Zenae Campbell issued a heartfelt statement emphasizing Ara’s impact: “Words cannot express our grief, sadness, and outrage at the loss of our dear friend Ara Duke. She was a kind, loving woman who dedicated her life to helping youth in our community. She always went above and beyond to ensure that students at IDEA Rundberg had the resources they needed to thrive in the world. We are all devastated by this loss, and we send our sincere condolences to her family and friends. As we mourn Ms. Ara as a community, we will remember her enthusiasm and love for our youth and honor the legacy that she leaves behind. She was an example for us all of how caring citizens can have a big impact on our world.”
Christopher poignantly described his wife’s life mission: “She gave, she cared for the kids,” he stated. “You know, ‘If I could change someone’s life…’ and that’s why she went into education.” Ara Duke’s legacy is deeply rooted in her selfless dedication to improving the lives of children in the Round Rock community.
Ara Duke is also survived by her 20-year-old daughter, Alena Holmes, who spoke of her mother’s nurturing and insightful nature. “She just loved checking in on her people and her friends…and she was a very smart woman, educationally, socially, emotionally,” Alena shared. “She taught me a lot of things, and I wish she could still teach me more.” Ara’s wisdom and caring spirit profoundly impacted her daughter and all those around her.
Christopher expressed immense gratitude for the overwhelming support received from friends and family across the nation. He also extended his deepest sympathies to the family of Lyndsey Vicknair, the other victim who tragically died in the Round Rock Juneteenth shooting. “We’re both suffering a tragic loss,” Christopher acknowledged, highlighting the shared grief within the community.
In lieu of flowers, Ara’s family has requested that those wishing to honor her memory consider donating to charities that were close to her heart and dedicated to supporting children. These organizations, NPH USA and the Boys and Girls Club of the Austin Area, were deeply meaningful to Ara and continue to positively impact the lives of countless children.
To donate to NPH USA in memory of Ara Duke, please click here.
To donate to the Boys and Girls Club of the Austin Area in memory of Ara Duke, please click here and include a note indicating “In Memory of Ara Duke.”
The Round Rock community remembers Ara Duke for her unwavering kindness, her passion for education, and her profound impact on the lives of children. Her legacy of giving and caring will continue to inspire and resonate throughout Round Rock and beyond.
