Community Honors Family Lost in Chattanooga Tragedy, Advocates for Safer Streets

Community Comes Together to Honor Family Lost in Tragic Accident in Chattanooga

Chattanooga, known for its vibrant parks and bustling streets, was a scene of both sadness and solidarity this past Saturday. Under the beautiful autumn sky at Coolidge Park, a gathering took place to honor Octavio Devia Paz and remember his beloved family, who unjustly lost their lives due to a devastating accident just over a year ago.

As attendees filled the park, it was hard to ignore the heartfelt atmosphere. Many approached Octavio, dressed in a colorful suit jacket adorned with flowers and a crisp white hat. With a smile that shone through his pain, he stood up—cane in hand—to greet Donna Christian Lowe, a familiar face in the community who has been instrumental in supporting his family through these difficult times. Their embrace was both bittersweet and uplifting.

One by one, individuals shared hugs, some even brought gifts. Adolfo Devia Paz, Octavio’s brother, presented Lowe with a piece of clothing representing their Colombian heritage. “They’re my new brothers,” she exclaimed with emotion evident in her eyes, highlighting the remarkable bond knit together by tragedy.

The Crash that Changed Everything

It was a day like no other on that fateful day when two speeding cars collided at one of Chattanooga’s most popular locations. Octavio, along with his wife, Ana Posso Rodriguez, and their young son, Jonathan, were simply enjoying a day out. The sudden chaos left Octavio with a body covered in scars from twenty-four surgeries and an unthinkable loss that reshaped his life.

Saturday’s event was not just a moment to think back on heartache but a recognition of new beginnings, transformation, and community action. After the crash, many voices arose, pushing for improvements to pedestrian safety on Frazier Avenue, where the tragedy unfolded. A local advocate noted that while the changes—including lower speed limits and bike lanes—are a step in the right direction, “it’s a shame it took such a loss to push for them.”

Looking for Change

During the event, Octavio expressed his gratitude for the improvements but also conveyed a strong desire for more. He shared ideas for wider sidewalks, speed bumps, and pedestrian protection measures he had seen in other cities. “If only these were in place last year,” he reflected, “it could have saved our lives.” The poignancy of his words echoed throughout the gathering.

A Celebration Amidst the Pain

butterflies—symbols of renewal and hope—to be placed at the site of the accident. Geno Wallace, a local hairstylist who orchestrated the day’s event, expressed gratitude for the participation and community spirit that has grown out of the tragedy.

In a heartfelt moment, local pastors prayed for the family, while Council member Jenny Hill emphasized, “Pedestrian safety is public safety.” Her commitment to making Chattanooga safer resonated with everyone present.

The event led to planting a tree in Coolidge Park to commemorate the family, a physical reminder of love and community resilience. As dusk approached, attendees illuminated the park with candles, lighting the way toward Frazier Avenue, the site forever marked by loss.

Reaching for Tomorrow

Moving Forward