As reports and details continue to come in, we're starting to learn more about the victims of the Paris attacks. Reports are confirming that a 23-year-old American woman, Nohemi Gonzalez, was among the 129 people killed in the horrifying acts of terror. An additional 352 were injured and many are still in critical condition. ISIS has taken responsibility for the deadly attacks across multiple locations throughout the city.
"I’m deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Long Beach State University student Nohemi Gonzalez. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends during this sad time,” said President Jane Close Conoley in a statement on the Cal State website. “Our university stands with our nearly eighty foreign exchange students from France as they struggle with this tragedy. We will extend all support necessary to comfort them. We will also extend support to all students, faculty and staff who are in need."
Here's what we know about the Cal State Long Beach student.
1. She Was Studying Abroad
A statement released on Cal State's website says that Gonzalez was a junior design student attending Strate College of Design in Sevres, France, as part of an exchange program during a semester abroad program. She was among 18 Cal State Long Beach students participating in Paris programs.
2. She Was A Cali Native
The college junior was originally from El Monte, California.
3. She Was A Was Reportedly Killed At One Of The Restaurants
According To NBC News, Gonzalez was "killed at one of the restaurants struck by terrorists."
4. People Who Knew Her Describe Her As 'Generous' And 'A Bright Soul'
Cal State design lecturer Michael LaForte wrote on Facebook that Gonzalez was a "kind, thoughtful, generous and talented student, dear to all who knew her," reports the Los Angeles Times.
On Instagram, her boyfriend posted a picture of them hugging and wrote: “Yesterday I lost the most important person in my life. She was my best friend and she will always be my angel forever. I am lost for words. My prayers are with her family. Such a bright soul and the sweetest girl with a smile on her face.”
5. The University Will Be Holding A Vigil For Her On Sunday
Long Beach State University will hold a vigil for Gonzalez at 4 p.m. Sunday.
What About Other American Victims?
While Gonzalez is the first American confirmed dead, The New York Times reports Americans are among those wounded in Friday's Paris attacks, and the U.S. government is working with French authorities to identify them.
“The United States Embassy in Paris is working round the clock to assist American citizens affected by this tragedy,” Mark Toner, the deputy spokesman for the State Department, said in a statement. “The U.S. government is working closely with French authorities to identify American victims. We are aware there are Americans among the injured, and are offering them the full range of consular assistance.”
U.S. citizens can call (888) 407-4747 (from the United States) or +1-202-501-4444 (from overseas) for assistance.
