Community Mourns Murdered Barista Samantha Koenig

Coffee stand she was abducted from closes early for memorial

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By Kate McPherson
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Story Created: Apr 4, 2012 at 10:32 AM AKDT

Story Updated: Apr 4, 2012 at 10:32 AM AKDT

ANCHORAGE - The news of Samantha Koenig’s murder has hit the Anchorage community hard, especially the coffee lovers who she served at Common Grounds Espresso, including Barry and Shirley Blumenthal.

The Blumenthals heard the news on their car radio that Samantha’s body had been found.

"We just had to pull over and stop; we couldn't believe it. We feel for the family – it's absolutely devastating,” said Barry Blumenthal.

The Common Grounds coffee stand closed early Tuesday as a way to pay respect for Samantha and to allow people to come and grieve.

“…To let people come and put flowers and whatever they want as a memorial to Samantha,” said barista Katie Jan.

Vicki Walton and her daughter brought flowers and a card for Samantha’s father to Common Grounds on Tuesday afternoon.

“The family, what really touched me is that they never ever gave up hope and faith that she was still alive, and so for it to come to such a tragic end yesterday is why we are here today," said Walton.

Macon Roberts says he is proud of how his city helped with the search.

“Anchorage came together in a way I've never seen them come together."

Now it seems everyone in town is mourning Samantha’s death.

“We all lost a little piece of something; we lost an innocent hard working young lady who was at her job and taken from her job and taken away from the community,” said Roberts.
 
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