December 1, 2024 - 16:26
On Saturday night, the community of Copake gathered to honor the memory of James Dellea, who tragically lost his life during a mental health crisis in September. The vigil, filled with emotion and reflection, saw attendees lighting candles in remembrance of Dellea, whose death has sparked conversations about mental health awareness and police intervention.
Friends, family, and community members shared stories of Dellea, emphasizing his vibrant spirit and the challenges he faced. The gathering served not only as a tribute to him but also as a call to action for better mental health resources and training for law enforcement. Many participants expressed their hope that such tragedies could be prevented in the future through increased understanding and support for those in crisis.
As the candles flickered in the night, the community united in their grief, promising to keep Dellea’s memory alive while advocating for change that could help others facing similar struggles.
