Mayor's office: Stamford resident among dead in plane crash near Washington, DC.
Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons' Office confirmed that Christopher Collins died in Wednesday's crash.
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A Stamford resident was among those killed in a plane crash near Washington D.C., according to the mayor's office.
Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons' office confirmed that Christopher Collins died in Wednesday's crash.
Simmons released a statement, saying, “I am devastated to hear that Stamford resident Christopher Collins was among those who tragically lost their lives in the recent aviation accident in Washington D.C. My thoughts are with Christopher’s family and friends during this difficult time, and all the families who have suffered from this unimaginable tragedy.”
Collins volunteered with Lucky Dog Refuge of Stamford, who issued the following statement on Facebook.
"In rescue, you steel your heart, knowing you will have to say tough goodbyes and suffer through inevitable losses. But this is one goodbye we could never have imagined or prepared for.
We are heartbroken over the tragic loss of Christopher Collins, who was aboard American Airlines 5342. Chris volunteered multiple times a week at Lucky Dog, and he was beloved by everyone, humans and animals alike. He was a kind, generous, compassionate person who loved his family and wanted to make this world a better place. He certainly made our community and rescue so much brighter with his presence, easy smile, and thoughtfulful nature.
We saw Chris on Monday, not knowing it would be the last time. He walked Splash; she was a bit nervous at first, but he wooed her with the treats he had with him. They went on a walk for an hour and when they returned, she was jumping on him like she had known him forever and he was her favorite person in the world. That's the kind of person he was - kind, patient, and compassionate.
Chris had scheduled volunteer sessions for yesterday and today, for as soon as he got back from his business trip. When he missed his shift on Thursday (which was incredibly unsual, Chris ALWAYS showed up or let us know if he couldn't make it), we texted him to check in and never got a response. Today, we found out why.
The devastation rippling through the staff is palpable. We think back to the hundreds of time he volunteered and wish we had taken photos, that we had captured the joy the dogs brought him, and he brought them. We wish we could go back to Monday and say "thank you."
Thank you, Chris, for being our biggest cheerleader and constant supporter. Thank you for giving our dogs the love they deserve, for giving so much of your precious time on this earth to them. Thank you for taking them on adventures, for snuggling on benches, for strolling through the park, and stopping to watch the softball games with them. Thank you for befriending our staff, sharing books, and painting to support our cause. Thank you for being such a special part of our Lucky Dog family.
Chris, you will be so deeply missed and our hearts are with your wife and family during this devastating time. We know you will take care of all the dogs on your side of the rainbow bridge with the same love patience as you did our Lucky Dogs here on earth. The world feels dimmer today but your memory will always shine bright."
