Daughters' Surprise Visit Precedes Mother's Tragic Death at Workplace

Wendi Winters was killed in a mass shooting at the Capital Gazette newspaper office in Annapolis, Maryland, just a year after her daughters surprised her at work.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In 2017, Summerleigh Winters and her sister surprised their mother, Wendi Winters, at her workplace, the Capital Gazette newspaper in Annapolis, Maryland. Tragically, just one year later, Wendi was killed in a mass shooting at the same office, where she bravely confronted the gunman in an attempt to protect her colleagues.

Why it matters

This story highlights the devastating impact of gun violence and the heroic actions of Wendi Winters, who gave her life to save others. It also underscores the lasting trauma experienced by the victims' families, who must grapple with the sudden loss of a loved one in a public setting.

The details

According to reports, on June 28, 2018, a gunman opened fire inside the Capital Gazette newsroom, killing five people, including Wendi Winters. Witnesses stated that Wendi confronted the assailant, using trash and recycling cans in an attempt to stop him and give her coworkers time to escape.

  • In 2017, Summerleigh Winters and her sister surprised their mother, Wendi Winters, at the Capital Gazette office.
  • On June 28, 2018, a gunman opened fire at the Capital Gazette, killing Wendi Winters and four others.

The players

Summerleigh Winters

Wendi Winters' daughter, who shared a video of the 2017 surprise visit to her mother's workplace on TikTok.

Wendi Winters

A 65-year-old community correspondent for the Capital Gazette newspaper in Annapolis, Maryland, who was killed in the 2018 mass shooting at the newspaper's office.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“In my mind, that visit just feels so average. The most memorable part is how she looks at me before the video ends. In the moment, we were all hugging and getting kisses, but my mom is looking at me with so much gratitude.”

— Summerleigh Winters (Newsweek)

“As unlikely as it is to have a 65‑year‑old woman charge a mass shooter, that is her legacy.”

— Summerleigh Winters (Newsweek)

What’s next

The family has since organized blood drives in Wendi Winters' honor, continuing what they see as her lifelong commitment to service.

The takeaway

This tragic story serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of gun violence and the bravery of those who risk their lives to protect others. Wendi Winters' heroic actions in the face of danger have cemented her legacy as a true community hero.