Candlelight vigil planned to honor Lakewood festival crash victims

LAKEWOOD, Ohio - Local organizations, businesses, and individuals are working together to assist the victims of a crash that occurred during the 28th Annual ‘Dancin’ In the Streets’ festival on Clifton Boulevard and W. 117th Street. The annual ‘Dancin’ In the Streets’ festival raises money and awareness for the AIDS Taskforce of Greater Cleveland.

On July 29, police said 35-year-old Timothy Spock, of Cleveland, plowed into the barricaded street, killing Mitchell Andelmo and Basil Bass, and injuring Constance Pokorny and Kevin Lett. Spock has since been charged with aggravated vehicular homicide and is being held on $150,000 bond.

Cleveland Pride, Ambiance, Flex Cleveland, AIDS Taskforce of Greater Cleveland and an anonymous donor have made donations to the families to use towards medical expenses and funeral costs.

"I was deeply touched by this tragedy," said Jennifer Downey, president of Ambiance in a news release. "When crisis impacts our friends and neighbors I believe that, as a business owner in Cleveland and a supporter of the community, we should come together with whatever resources we may have to support those most affected. My sincerest condolences go out to all of the people involved in this tragedy."

"Cleveland Pride sends our deepest sympathies to the families and friends of the victims. The events of July 29 have impacted Cleveland’s LGBTQ community and allies in many ways," said Todd Saporito, president of Cleveland Pride in a news release. "What was to be a positive celebration of awareness that many of us in the community have been a part of for 28 years, turned into a sorrowful day we will never forget."

An Honor and Healing Candlelight Vigil is planned for Thursday night to honor Mitch Andelmo and Basil Bass, and support the recovery of Constance Pokorny and Kevin Lett.

The vigil will be held at The Women’s Club Pavilion at Lakewood Park and will begin at 6 p.m.

WHAT: Honor and Healing Candlelight Vigil

WHERE: The Women’s Club Pavilion, Lakewood Park, 14532 Lake Ave., Lakewood

WHEN: Thursday, Aug. 23, 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Schedule for event:
6 p.m. – Music and gathering
6:30 p.m. – Speakers and tribute
7 p.m. – Candle lighting and procession