Demolition starts at Gary school where body was found in 2019

Demolition work commenced on a Tuesday at Norton Elementary School in Gary, Indiana, a site that has been vacant since 2006. The school gained notoriety in 2019 when the body of Adriana Saucedo was discovered in its gymnasium, two days after she was murdered by three teenagers in Portage. The presence of her body in such a public place has left a lasting impact on the community and her family, who are seeking closure from this tragic event. Adriana Saucedo's sisters attended the demolition, marking a significant moment in their journey toward healing. The school district's superintendent, Yvonne Stokes, expressed the importance of moving forward and providing closure for the family. The demolition is not only a physical removal of the site associated with a painful memory but also a symbolic step toward healing for the community. The demolition is projected to take approximately six weeks and will cost over $750,000. This financial investment reflects the community's commitment to transforming the area and moving past the tragedy that occurred within the school's walls. The decision to demolish the building signifies a desire to erase the negative associations tied to the site and to create a more positive environment for future generations. As the demolition progresses, it serves as a reminder of the need for community support and resilience in the face of violence. The hope is that this action will foster a renewed sense of safety and well-being in the neighborhood, allowing residents to reclaim their space and memories in a more positive light.