WILMINGTON, N.C. -- Dozens of coastal residents took a moment of silence for the victims who have recently lost their lives to gun violence.

• New Hanover Black Caucus and other groups participate
• Following Santa Fe High School shooting and Waffle House shooting
• Some say there's a need for stronger gun laws

The New Hanover Black Caucus, along with other community organizations, hosted a candlelight vigil at the historical 1898 Monument Monday night.

Leaders say they are paying tribute to the victims of the Santa Fe High School shooting in Texas last week, and also honoring those who lost their lives in the Waffle House shooting in Tennessee last month.

"It's hard for a family to have to go in there and identify the body of the love one under these circumstances and we definitely need stronger gun laws," said organizer Sonya Patrick.

Some residents say they wish the leaders who represent them would do more to create stricter gun laws.

“It’s sad. We need to have a vigil almost every week because everyone needs to know how important it is to live together,” said Wilmington resident Acquinetta Beatty.