Community honors young man on September 23

CHANDLER, AZ — The East Valley community remembers young Preston Lord on Monday, which would have been his 17th birthday.

The City of Chandler recently declared September 23rd as “Preston Lord Day” in memory of the teenager who lost his life in an assault. wild attack By other teenagers who attended the Halloween party last year.

“I hope that we can come together in unity and solidarity for Preston,” Preston’s father, Nick Lord, told ABC15. interview conducted earlier this month“It’s going to be a really tough day for me, so I’m celebrating the day anyway. I’m hoping some people will take the time to come and celebrate with us.”

Watch more of our one-on-one interview with the Lord family in the video player below:

Preston Lord’s parents meet for first time in one-on-one interview

The community is encouraged to wear orange, Preston’s favourite colour, and “live like Preston”, which Nick said means “not complaining, being grateful and being happy with what you have”.

“He was genuine, he was kind, he was loving, and he wanted a future for himself and he worked hard for it,” said Melissa, Preston’s stepmother. “He also wanted a good future for his friends, his family and the people in his life.”

An incident It will begin at 5 p.m. at The Stillery in Chandler. There will be a butterfly release, speakers, a celebration of her life and live music.

Accordingly Justice4PrestonLord Facebook pageThere are many other ways to honor young people: placing signs in the yard, attending separate events at local businesses, and more.

FULL COVERAGE: YOUTH VIOLENCE