February 21st, 0:45am, exactly a year ago, Ryo Oyamada was struck and killed by a patrol car under the cold sky.
On this day, Ryo's family and friends got together at the accident site for Ryo's memorial service.
On this day, Ryo's family and friends got together at the accident site for Ryo's memorial service.
About 25 people, including some locals attended the ceremony. Dozens of candles were lit, surrounded Ryo's memorial. The family and friends expressed their feelings for Ryo.
One of Ryo's friends sang "Where's the Fun In Forever?" to celebrate Ryo's life.
"Where's the fun in forever
Gatta live it like it's your last
Got to toast for the moment"
Ryo's life was short. But we all believe he lived like this song, enjoyed everyday, appreciating every moment.
Ryo's friend who traveled all the way from Japan to attend this ceremony told me,
"I was very scared to come to accident site here in NY, because I haven't even accepted Ryo's death. But coming here made me realize again how attractive Ryo was, feeling the friendship and relationship he built here. I was touched that even the worker at the deli nearby remember him and talk to us. I will never forget about this ceremony."
She continues,
"I was able to experience the city Ryo was attracted by, seeing New York with my own eyes. Now I am experiencing the same feeling Ryo experienced."
It must be hard for Ryo's family to commemorate the first anniversary of his death. However, they said they felt warm being surrounded by the people who care about Ryo. Also, the letters from Ryo's friends were delivered to this ceremony.
Their journey will be continued. Please stay with us to support the family.
Here are links to the press media which covered this ceremony.
Article about the press conference followed next day.
"I was able to experience the city Ryo was attracted by, seeing New York with my own eyes. Now I am experiencing the same feeling Ryo experienced."
It must be hard for Ryo's family to commemorate the first anniversary of his death. However, they said they felt warm being surrounded by the people who care about Ryo. Also, the letters from Ryo's friends were delivered to this ceremony.
Their journey will be continued. Please stay with us to support the family.
Here are links to the press media which covered this ceremony.
- NYPD's Reckless Driving Blamed At Vigil For Japanese Student Killed By Police Cruiser (Gothamist)
- Japanese student remembered at vigil one year after he was fatally struck by police vehicle (Times Ledger)
- Queensbridge.us
Article about the press conference followed next day.
- Family Of Japanese Student Killed By NYPD Car: "We Want To Know The Truth" (Gothamist)
- Family of Japanese Man Fatally Struck by NYPD Car Pushing for Answers (DNAinfo)