Hundreds gathered at a candlelight vigil on June 17 at Owego’s St. Patrick’s Cemetery to honor and remember Ruby Franciscovich, an eight-month-old little girl who was the victim of a senseless crime on June 9, 2019. Red balloons, flowers, stuffed animals, handmade signs and other items adorned the entrance sign to the cemetery.
Guests gathered just before 8 p.m., and many dressed in the color red, to commemorate #RedForRuby.
Organizers of the event, including Amber LaPlante, Irene Radigan, Nicole Ellis, and Michelle Gibson, handed out red ribbons and candles, and welcomed the community.
The organizers commented that the loss of Ruby is a loss for everyone, and it was their desire to show love and support to the friends, family and the entire community.
Gibson crafted the red ribbons, because, she said, “I didn’t personally know Ruby or her family, but I wanted to get involved and do something, so I decided to make red ribbons for those attending the vigil.”
Gibson further explained that the red ribbon symbolized the beauty of Ruby’s name, and in addition, she hoped that anyone attending the vigil would also utilize the occasion to reach out to others who are struggling or in need of help.
Attending the event were several motorcycle groups from the region. Members of the Southern Tier Rapture Riders remarked that upwards of 80 motorcycle riders, and many with passengers, met at the Tractor Supply store in Vestal, N.Y., and along with a police escort, rode the rest of the way together to Owego.
Father Anthony Amato, Parochial Vicar at Blessed Trinity and St. Patrick’s Parishes, offered words of comfort.
Father Amato explained that no words can convey the sorrow, and even anger, that so many are feeling now.
He remarked, “At times like these, it certainly puts our faith to an extreme test.”
Radigan recited a poem written by Kathy Ostrander in honor of Ruby, which, in part, read, “You were born such a beautiful jewel, how could anyone be so cruel? No one knows what you could have been, we can only wonder and pretend. We will light a candle to remember and send our love; you are a red star shining far up above.”
Mourners joined together to sing “Amazing Grace,” Father Amato led a prayer, and other songs were played prior to the conclusion of the vigil.
The New York State Police arrested 25-year-old Cody A. Franciscovich of Owego and charged him with first-degree murder of his daughter, Ruby. Franciscovich has pleaded not guilty to the charge, and remains in the Tioga County jail. If convicted, Franciscovich could face up to life in prison.
Two other children are with family members, and Child Protective Services is actively involved in the case.
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