Marquette student studying abroad in Paris reacts to Notre Dame fire

Michaela Shields said it was an emotional experience for her and others to see what was happening to the historic landmark.

“There was one older man who was pretty inconsolable,” she said. “He was screaming and crying and there was a group trying to comfort him, so there was a very strong sense of community going on.”

Shields visited the cathedral earlier during her first month in the city. She said she hopes it will be restored because of what it means to Paris and the world.