Support for Emily Ruiz's Family

On July 4th, 2024, tragedy struck and rocked an entire Lower East Side community when a drunk driver drove his F-150 truck into our family and friends who were enjoying a holiday gathering in the park. Four of our dearest were taken from us, Emily Ruiz, 30, who leaves behind her 6 year old son Kal-El and mother Liliana, Herman Pinkney 38, Lucille Pinkney 59, and Ana Morel, 43, who all leave behind their family and friends with such immense grief.

Emily Ruiz fought for her life in critical care but tragically has succumbed to her injuries. Emily was such an amazing mother, daughter, cousin, niece and best friend.

Emily was uniquely wise beyond her years. If you ever spoke with Emily you would quickly discover her loving nature and sincere heart, that she loved all things horror, reading, making bracelets for friends and family, and was a collector of many things. But what Emily loved most was being a mom to the coolest little boy in the world and the one true love of her life her son Kal-El.

The family and friends of the beloved who lost their lives feel they were the barrier that kept the vehicle from hurting the many children that were present. Not only did Emily die a hero, she continues her heroism as an organ donor.

During this unbelievably painful time, any support for Emily's son who now has to live without his mother and with the memory of how his mother passed, is deeply appreciated.