Father of Aurora shooting victim reflects on year anniversary



MEQUON (WITI) -- One year after a gunman opened fire at an Aurora, Colorado movie theater, the father of Mequon native Carey Rottman, who was injured in the shooting, reflects on the past year.

"It was so scary, very emotional. We still get teary-eyed when we talk about it," said Carey's father, Dale Rottman. "I think in a situation like this, you're part of a horrific event, you have to decide how it will define you."

12 people were killed and 70 others injured during the incident on July 20th, 2012 at the midnight showing of "The Dark Knight Rises."

After being shot in the leg, doctors told Carey Rottman it would take a year for him to heal. Rottman focused on the positive and in about six months, the former Homestead High School football player was back to playing sports.

"I think he really appreciates things more. He was always a positive guy, but he wasn't going to let it get him down," said Dale Rottman.

The family says they find strength in Carey's survival, although life have changed for them in many ways.

"I just happened to be in a sporting store a couple of weeks ago and you see all these assault rifles. They're not for hunting, you know?" said Dale Rottman.

When shooter James Holmes makes appearances in court, Rottman says, "just let the justice system take its course. Whatever happens, happens."