The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office and the Homicide Bereavement Support Group held their annual memorial ceremony Friday, bringing together families from across the Suncoast whose loved ones were lost to violence. Among them was Luis Reyes, whose husband, Alain Sierra, was killed in downtown Sarasota while shielding Reyes from gunfire. The family of Steven Colon also attended, still seeking further review more than a year after his death was ruled justified under Florida’s Stand Your Ground law.
Colton Wright’s mother shared a statement that carried through the room: “Colton Wright was here. He mattered. He was deeply loved. He should still be here.” Colton was murdered after connecting with someone through online dating, and his killer received more than 20 years. His mother urged caution with dating apps, noting that “the person behind a profile may not always be the person you believe you are getting to know.” Scholarships and a memorial car show now honor his memory.
Organizers say the ceremony exists to offer shared comfort and a promise that loved ones are never forgotten. For anyone navigating loss, the Homicide Bereavement Support Group and local victim advocate services remain available year round. If you or someone you know needs support, reaching out is a strength, not a weakness. How does our community best keep the memory of lost loved ones alive? Share your thoughts with us.
