One word that could sum up what has happened in the Shenendehowa Central School District in the past few days: “community.”
That word rises above “tragedy” or even “heartbreak,” and indeed extends out beyond the school district. And it was epitomized Tuesday, Dec. 4, when thousands from not only the Clifton Park area but from all over the Capital District flocked to a candlelight vigil at the Shenendehowa High School Athletic Field for Chris Stewart and Deanna Rivers.
They lit candles, raised signs and shared stories about the students, whose lives were cut short in a weekend crash on the Northway.
The emotional remembrance was punctuated by the surprise arrival of Matthew Hardy, who along with Shaker student Bailey Wind was injured in the crash. When the crowd saw an ambulance pull up, accompanied by state troopers, thousands surged to their feet with a cheer that thundered through the stadium.
But most of the evening was filled with somber remembrance. A group of Shenendehowa football alumni who knew Stewart spoke of how sorely he will be missed.
“This is so terrible and shocking,” said Jesse Fulger. “He was like a little brother to all of us. I can’t think of anyone more undeserving than Chris for this to happen to.”
“As good as he was in class and on the football field, it doesn’t even begin to compare how he was in day-to-day life,” said Aaron Vassar.
Shenendehowa Superintendent L. Oliver Robinson seemed overwhelmed by the show of support.
“This is such an impact on not only the school, but surrounding schools,” said Robinson. “The ripple effect is so wide, we tried to accommodate as many people as we could. This is the time to show our respect to the families.”
The hour-long ceremony was sprinkled with moments of tears and laughter as speaker after speaker rose to share their memories of Stewart and Rivers, and share hopes and prayers for a speedy recovery for Hardy and Wind.
Robinson encouraged the crowd to remember how fragile life can be.
“This tragic event has left us all with heavy hearts,” he said in part. “It causes us to question our faith. But moments like this serve as a reminder of how fragile life is. Our lives are marked by footprints on the sands of time.
“Let their lives not be in vain,” he continued. “Let us rekindle our own faith. We should let peace and friendship be our shelter from life’s storms, because inevitably we will be strengthened by this event and the legacy of Deanna Rivers and Chris Stewart will persist in our hearts and minds forever.”
Brian Clawson, who coaches Shen football, announced that Stewart’s number, 69, and Rivers’s number, 19, would be retired. He also said scholarships would be established in their memory.
Perhaps the most poignant moment in an evening wrought with emotions came when Nikki Wind, Bailey Wind’s sister, read an email message she had sent. Bailey, who was Chris’ girlfriend, thanked everyone for their prayers and urged people to never drink and drive.
“I loved Chris with all my heart and I don’t know what I will do without him,” wrote Bailey. “Number 69 is forever mine.”
Patricia Hardy and Matthew Hardy, Matt’s parents, declined to speak publicly, but released a message through the Shenendehowa School District:
“We appreciate and are overwhelmed with gratitude for the outpouring of support and concern from the entire Shenendehowa community and beyond. While the call from Tim Tebow provided a smile in an otherwise devastating situation, we would like to keep the attention focused on supporting the families of the students who passed. Tonight is a time to come together as a community and celebrate the lives of Chris and Deanna.”
Charges have not yet been filed against the driver who allegedly collided with Stewart’s SUV, pushing it off the road.
State Police say Dennis Drue, 22, of Clifton Park, rear-ended Stewart’s car and sent both vehicles off the roadway about one mile north of the Twin Bridges on Saturday, Dec. 1. The students were returning home from the Siena College, UAlbany basketball game at the Times Union Center.
Police said Drue tested positive for alcohol in a Breathalyzer test but his exact BAC will be determined from analysis blood drawn at Ellis Hospital, where he received treatment. The testing process is being expedited, according to police.
Police say Drue is likely to face charges, and the severity of the legal action is likely to hinge on his BAC.