A Vermonter's life was stolen in the Las Vegas massacre.

Sunday, Sandra Casey, 35, was an engaged concertgoer looking to enjoy some country music. Monday, she was being mourned by her family and friends back home.

"I was shocked," said Kathi Bierwirth, Casey's former basketball coach. "It was anyone's worst nightmare."

Casey, who was lovingly known as Sandy, grew up in Dorset. Her Aunt Linda O'Leary sent WCAX News a statement saying in part: "Her parents ask for prayers and privacy for her sisters, co-workers, students, and large extended family."

Casey graduated high school from Burr and Burton Academy in 2000. Community members are remembering her as a positive and bright light, even on dark days.

"Brought so much enthusiasm and spirit not only to her class but to the whole school," said Meg Kenny of Burr and Burton. "She's really well loved by all the teachers that are still here that had her in class."

The school held a moment of silence for Casey and all the victims of the mass shooting. Bierwirth says losing Casey is a tragedy.

"She was graceful. She was gracious. She walked with a lot of confidence but she was just a hard-working, fun-loving girl," said Bierwirth.

Casey was working in Manhattan Beach, California, as a teacher. It's a job Bierwirth says was a good fit for Casey's big heart.

"She cared so much about people and valued that," said Bierwirth.

"It's really going to be a difficult loss for so many," said Kenny.

School faculty say Casey was extremely involved in the community, as she took dance classes, taught swimming and also played soccer.

Casey received her bachelor's and master's degrees at the College of Saint Joseph in Rutland. That school released a statement, saying: "We extend our heartfelt condolences to all her family and friends, including the ones she knew here at CSJ."