Vigil held for slain city worker

PHILADELPHIA (WTXF) - City officials held a vigil for a co-worker shot to death in what police say was a murder-suicide.

READ MORE: City council staff member killed in apparent murder-suicide

"I just want to thank everybody for the and support that you've given our family," said Rick Sheaffer. He spoke solemnly before dozens of friends and coworkers who like he and his family are grieving the loss of 37-year-old Linda Rios.

"It's hard for us as a family to put into words the way we feel. No words can replace our sister. Our hearts are broke," he said. Police say Rios was shot to death by her 44-year-old husband who then shot and killed himself Tuesday of last week in their northeast Philadelphia home.

Her brother pleaded with the crowd to do something to prevent domestic violence.

"I just ask please if you know somebody say something," said Sheaffer. The vigil for Rios was held this evening in the courtyard of City Hall. She was the Director of Human Resources for the city.

"We don't know what it's like to be a blood family member but we know what it's like to be a family member of Linda," said Council President Darrell Clarke. People who worked with Rios during her 19 years with the city remember her spirit.

"She was just a phenomenal person," said Paulette Adams. She worked with Rios. Adams and co-worker Dd Ingle fought to hold back tears.

"She was our mama. Our go to. Our everything," said Inge. Those gathered held candles.

"We're mourning her death but we're also celebrating her life," said Adams. They also wore purple ribbons for domestic violence awareness hoping to save someone through what happened to their friend.

"There's somebody who is willing to listen and to take whatever measures and steps to help you." Said Adams.

The couple leaves behind 4-year-old twin daughters. They fled the home with a babysitter who was also there when the shootings happened.