Longmont Honors 33 Crash Victims at Urgent Remembrance Event

UPDATE: Longmont held a powerful remembrance event on November 16, 2023, honoring the 33 lives lost on its roadways over the past five years. The ceremony, part of the global World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, took place at the Longmont Museum, where 33 candles illuminated the atrium, each representing a victim of traffic crashes.

During the emotional gathering, residents, city staff, and first responders shared stories of loss and resilience. Dylan Zamora-Silva, a communications specialist for the city’s Vision Zero Task Force, emphasized the importance of coming together to honor those affected by traffic incidents. “Tonight is about honoring, paying tribute, and making a space for those who have lost their lives or been seriously impacted by traffic crashes,” he stated. The city aims to achieve zero deaths and serious injuries by 2040.

Attendees were deeply moved by stories shared, including that of Brittany Lamb, who survived a horrific 1997 drunk-driving crash that claimed five lives, including her aunt. “Healing isn’t pretending you’re fine. It’s learning to let go of what was never yours to hold,” she shared, urging the crowd to understand that remembrance must lead to change.

The event highlighted the urgent need for traffic safety measures. According to Camme Edson, Longmont’s Vision Zero coordinator, the city recorded 8,994 crashes in the last five years, with 294 serious injuries and 33 fatalities. She pointed out that distracted driving, speeding, and failure to yield are the leading causes of these serious incidents. “The kinetic energy, the sheer speed at which we’re going, could be the difference between whether someone survives a serious incident or not,” Edson warned.

Since adopting its Vision Zero ordinance in 2023, Longmont has focused on data-driven strategies to improve traffic safety. The event underscored the program’s comprehensive approach, addressing both infrastructure and behavioral factors that contribute to crashes. Zamora-Silva noted, “We are advocating for a ‘safe system’ approach to traffic safety that encompasses education, outreach, and community engagement.”

The commitment to road safety is personal for city staff, as noted by Edson. “Transportation affects our daily lives, whether we actively or consciously think about it or not,” she said. “While we honor those who are lost tonight, I hope we can use this moment to renew our individual commitments to protecting one another.”

Looking ahead, Zamora-Silva expressed optimism for future events, hoping to make the Day of Remembrance an annual tradition in Longmont that continues to grow. “I can imagine that our third year is going to be more inviting and bring even more people in,” he said.

Longmont is sending a clear message: the fight for safer roads is ongoing, and every voice matters in the pursuit of change. Share this crucial update to raise awareness about road safety and honor those who have been impacted.