It has been an emotional couple of days for the family of 20-month-old Rian Davis, who was struck and killed by an SUV in Buffalo Thursday night. Tonight, emotions were still high, during the vigil that was held for her on Fernhill Avenue.
The community came together, lit candles, and brought balloons to the scene on this rainy night. Everyone said a prayer for Rian, and for all the children out there. Leonard Lane, Rian's grandfather, says he is still trying to process her death.
"I woke up this morning hoping it was a dream," said Lane. "Hoping that I would hear my granddaughter coming to me... crying, and saying 'poppy'."
Lane was also very thankful to the community for coming out and showing their support.
"My family, we are heartbroken, but we stand here because of the support of our community," said Lane.
He also wanted to thank everybody who was there the day of the incident.
"We thank the Buffalo police for coming in so quickly and the Buffalo fire department for moving so quickly and getting my daughter to the hospital," Lane added. Even the neighbors who came running to the scene at the time of my daughter being tragically run over. Our hearts bleed today.
As the police, fire departments, and citizens around the area united on Fernhill tonight, a friend of the family, realized how special this was.
"I think it's a good thing that the community is coming out," said Akin. "It shows that we're not as divided as everybody thinks we are. I think it's a good thing that everybody is out here showing love, whether they knew her or not."
She felt it was very important to show her support during this tough time.
"It's a really messed up situation," Akin said. "All these babies are losing their lives out here. We really have to hold our babies tight. We just want to let her know that we're here. I know it's a hard time but she's not alone."
The funeral for baby Rian is set for this Friday morning at the Prince of Peace Church of God on 669 Kensington Avenue. For directions on how to get there, click here.
It will be followed by a celebration of Rian's life at the park on the corner of Fernhill and Grider, at 15 Fernill Ave. For directions on how to get there, click here.
"It's going to be a true celebration," said Lane. "Friday we will celebrate her life in a carnival-like atmosphere. We won't be mourning after that. We will be celebrating her life and her entrancing to heaven."
