What We Know About The Victims

Hallie was the daughter of Chad Scruggs, the pastor at Covenant Presbyterian Church, the church affiliated with the school.

The 9-year-old was “such a gift,” her father told ABC News.

“We are heartbroken,” Chad Scruggs said. “Through tears we trust that she is in the arms of Jesus who will raise her to life once again.”

Hallie was the youngest of four children in her family, according to a Facebook post from a sister church.

William Kinney, 9

William had “an unflappable spirit” and adored his sisters, parents, grandparents, and other relatives, according to a GoFundMe set up for his family.

“He was unfailingly kind, gentle when the situation called for it, quick to laugh, and always inclusive of others,” it continued. “Sweet Will knew no strangers, and our hearts our broken for his family as they try to find their way forward.”

Cynthia Peak, 61

Peak was a substitute teacher at the school, officials said.

A Louisiana native, Peak was a “sweet person from a sweet family,” her childhood friend, Chuck Owen, told the Associated Press. She was a mother of three, KALB-TV reported.

Peak was also close friends with Tennesee first lady Maria Lee. In a video message Tuesday night, Gov. Bill Lee said his wife, Peak, and Koonce taught at the same school and have been friends for decades.

Lee said Peak was supposed to come over to have dinner with his wife Monday night after filling in as a substitute teacher at Covenant.

“All of Tennessee was hurt yesterday, but some parents woke up without children, children woke up without parents and without teachers, and spouses woke up without their loved ones,” Lee said. “Maria woke up this morning without one of her best friends.”