On the anniversary of one of the worst crashes in Fort Worth history, a memorial ceremony was held. KRLD's Andrew Greenstein was there.
On February 11th, 2021, six people were killed in a massive pileup on an ice-covered I-35W.
Tractor-trailers unable to stop were captured on video plowing into the stopped traffic in front of them, sending some vehicles airborne.
The victims were: Tiffany Gerred, 34; Aaron Watson, 45; Michael Wells, 47; Christopher Vardy, 49; William D. Williams, 54; and Tamara Mendoza, 46.
On Friday morning, with the scene of that tragic event in the background families and friends of the victims gathered here at Riverside Park in their memory.
"We're here to remember, we're here to reflect, and we're here to celebrate the lives of folks that were forever changed," Jim Davis, Fort Worth fire chief said.
Two benches were placed in the park in memory of the victims, and they were dedicated during the ceremony.
Fort Worth Police Chief Neil Noakes said the benches, which face the stretch of I-35W where the pileup occurred, are there for people to sit and reflect on that tragic day.
"Remember strength in the face of adversity, remember resilience in defiance of tragedy, and remember healing by virtue of the peace that passes all understanding," Chief Noakes said.
Fort Worth Mayor Parker was also on hand to address the families of the victims, and she also paid tribute to the first responders who were on scene.
"Our police officers, our firefighters, MedStar - you show up every day and do amazing work, and it breaks my heart that you had to be on display in that way," Mayor Parker said.
Families of four of the six victims spoke during the ceremony.
Among them was Fort Worth Deputy Police Chief Paula Fimbres, who spoke on behalf of the family of her cousin, Christopher Vardy.
She said the actions of the first responders give the family solace.
"We want to express our sincere appreciation to all the first responders who risked their lives in sub-freezing temperatures to rescue and recover all of the victims," Deputy Chief Fimbres said.
Cindy Gerred, who lost her daughter, Tiffany Gerred, in the crash, said drives home from work have been very difficult for her in the past year.
"That 45-minute drive is full of memories of my beautiful daughter and just how much we miss her," Cindy Gerred said, her voice trailing off with emotion.
Lauren Quilantan shared fond memories of her father, Michael Wells.
"His laughter resounds in our memory, his charm forever imprints it in our hearts," Quilantan said.
Through an interpreter, Marielena de Freites paid tribute to her mother, Tamara Mendoza.
"She was a kind, religious, intelligent, good-hearted woman, and much more than I could ever describe."
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