SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The family of Tyre Nichols remembered him during a ceremony in Sacramento, marking one year since his tragic death. Nichols, who was raised in Sacramento, passed away on Jan. 10, 2023, after being assaulted by Memphis police officers three days earlier. He was 29 years old.
The remembrance event took place at the Tyre Nichols Skate Park in the Natomas area, where family and friends gathered to honor his memory. Nichols’ nephew, Khamari Ellis, described him as someone who always had a smile on his face and made it his mission to bring joy to others.
The event featured a candlelight vigil, prayer, and an illuminated balloon release, serving as a tribute to Nichols and a gesture of support for his family as they prepare for the upcoming state trial of the four Memphis police officers charged in his death. The trial is set to commence on Aug. 12, and the four officers have pleaded not guilty to second-degree murder and other charges.
In addition to the trial, the community is working to move forward with Phase 2 of the skate park, which was renamed in honor of Nichols last summer. City Council Member Lisa Kaplan shared that they are aiming to have the next phase completed by his birthday in June.
The family’s goal is to seek justice, reform, and healing as they continue to honor the memory of Tyre Nichols, a beloved member of the community. The event and ongoing efforts serve as a poignant reminder of the impact Nichols had on those around him and the importance of seeking accountability in the pursuit of justice.