Theater's Future In Question After Shooting
AURORA, Colo. (CBS4)- A decision about the future of theater 9 inside the Century 16 theater where a gunmen opened fire last Friday is expected to be a lengthy process.
Twelve people were killed and 58 others injured in the attack that included gas, explosions and rapid gunfire.
The theater remains a crime scene nearly a week later. It's expected to be released back to the theater's management later this week.
"It's just too sad. I can't imagine walking back in there," said Aurora resident Mackenzie Wilusz.
Aurora Mayor Steve Hogan said the discussion about the future of the theater will begin once the crime scene tape is cleared.
"There's going to be discussion and debate about whether or not the theater structure should stay up or come down and every point of discussion is going to be part of that process," said Hogan.
Those discussions are already happening on the street and at the community memorial across from the theater.
"I think it should be torn down and they can always build the building somewhere else," said Aurora resident Stephen Alexander.
"We didn't get rid of Columbine. I was there for that. So I don't think we should get rid of it. Nine shouldn't be open or it may be an inside memorial," said Colorado resident Ashleigh Long.
Cinemark, a Texas-based company, owns Century 16. The company has not publicly discussed plans for the theater once it is no longer a crime scene.
"Cinemark's thoughts, prayers and focus are on the families, victims, our employees and the Aurora community," was the statement released by the theater after the shooting.
Some hope the community will reclaim the theater.
"I'm truly hoping we can reclaim it, take it back so he doesn't win," said Aurora resident Toby Anderson.
Don't miss a special hour long report on CBS4 on Friday at 4 p.m. titled "Movie Theater Tragedy: Remember, Honor Support" which will look back at the week following the Aurora shootings.
