The Riverside, Missouri, community gathered on Friday night at the Riverside Fire Department to mourn and celebrate the life of 12-year-old Giuliani Calderon, who was tragically killed during a violent crime spree that spanned Riverside and Kansas City, Kansas.
Community Vigil and Support
Organized within 72 hours, the event drew a large crowd, including Calderon’s family, friends, and local residents. Activities at the vigil included playing football, making bracelets, and writing cards to Giuliani, providing attendees, especially children, with outlets to express their grief.
A large poster was also available for people to leave messages for Giuliani and his family.
Giuliani’s grandfather, Zachery Ontiveros, expressed profound gratitude for the community’s support, stating, “All these people right here are the glue keeping our family together right now.”
Details of the Crime Spree
The tragic events unfolded when George Manning III embarked on a violent crime spree that resulted in the deaths of Giuliani Calderon and Katie Bjorklund, 33.
The incident began with the abduction of Manning’s five-year-old daughter, leading to an Amber Alert. Manning later dropped off his daughter with family members before returning to Riverside, where he was fatally shot by police.
Family’s Ongoing Struggle
Giuliani’s mother, Mercedes Ontiveros, was also injured during the incident and is currently recovering in the hospital. Family friend Katie Marron conveyed the family’s appreciation for the outpouring of support and noted that Ontiveros is awake and eating, with family members by her side.
Community’s Healing Process
The vigil served as a space for collective mourning and healing. Rucker emphasized the importance of community in the healing process, stating, “Healing happens when people feel safe, and healing happens in community.”
Community Resources and Support
In response to the tragedy, the community has rallied to provide support for the affected families.
A GoFundMe campaign has been established to assist the Ontiveros family with future expenses, with all funeral costs for Giuliani covered. The funds raised will directly support Mercedes and her daughters during this difficult time.
The Riverside community’s response to the tragic loss of 12-year-old Giuliani Calderon exemplifies the power of unity and collective healing.
Through vigils, support initiatives, and shared grief, the community stands together, honoring Giuliani’s memory and supporting those affected by this senseless act of violence.