A gunman shot dozens of people during a showing of "The Dark Knight Rises" at a theater in the community of Aurora, Colo. on July 20, 2012.
On Friday, survivors and family members gathered together in a suburban Denver park to remember the 12 victims who lost their lives in the movie theater shooting rampage.
Officials said a total of 58 people were injured. Most of the victims were admitted with gunshot wounds, while some were treated for shrapnel wounds.
The suspected shooter, James Holmes, slowly walked up and down the theater aisles, shooting at random people.
The victims' names were read aloud Friday, as were the names of 2,500 other people who recently died in gun violence. Participants talked about the pain of losing loved ones as they called for strict federal gun control laws.
Mayors Against Illegal Guns, which promotes tough gun laws and was founded by New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, helped sponsor the vigil.
About 100 gun rights activists held a protest nearby to oppose new firearms restrictions as infringements on Second Amendment rights.
Remembrance events planned for Saturday included an early morning memorial service and a host of volunteer civic works, music, arts and even meditation. Aurora officials say they wanted to promote healing.
"One year ago, the peace of our community was shattered," Aurora Mayor Steve Hogan said. "We are still seeking justice."
"It is important for us to remember that one senseless act does not, cannot and will not define us as a community," Hogan added. "This is a story of resilience, not just of Aurora but of humankind."
Holmes is expected to go on trial next year for the shooting. He has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
