The passing of Anne Marie Hochhalter, a survivor of the Columbine High School shooting who experienced partial paralysis, has been officially classified as a homicide, bringing the total death toll from the tragic 1999 incident to 14. Hochhalter succumbed to sepsis on February 16, which stemmed from her complications related to her paralysis, according to an autopsy report released by the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office.
Initially perceived by her loved ones as a natural consequence of her enduring injuries from the shooting, Hochhalter’s death prompted further investigation owing to the significant role her paralysis was believed to have played. This investigation was referred to the same office that reviewed other fatalities resulting from the school shooting, which had claimed the lives of 12 students and a teacher, while the two perpetrators also took their own lives during the attack.
In the years post-shooting, Hochhalter faced continual struggles with severe pain from her wounds but displayed remarkable resilience and positivity, as recounted by her family and friends. In addition to fighting her own battles, she dedicated herself to helping others, particularly those with disabilities, and also expressed a deep affection for animals, especially dogs.
Remarkably, Hochhalter embraced a spirit of forgiveness, notably reaching out to the mother of one of the gunmen, Sue Klebold. In a heartfelt letter penned in 2016, she offered forgiveness, reflecting on the detrimental nature of bitterness: “A good friend once told me, ‘Bitterness is like swallowing a poison pill and expecting the other person to die.’ It only harms yourself. I have forgiven you and only wish you the best.”
Through her exceptional journey, Hochhalter not only highlighted the impact of personal tragedy on resilience and compassion but also served as a beacon of hope for many facing similar adversities.