In May of 1997, a University of Dayton sophomore named Ryan Harris was the victim of a fatal late-night carjacking in a central Phoenix park. At the time of his death, the 6'3' student had been excelling in his studies, earning a 3.4 grade point average in the preceding semester. His life was cut short when he was shot and killed during the commission of the crime.
The violent end to his life stood in stark contrast to the gentle and determined nature his family remembered him by.
The aftermath of the tragic event led to the apprehension and prosecution of two individuals. One of the assailants was tried, found guilty, and subsequently sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. The second individual, who was identified as the one who actually shot Ryan Harris, was also found guilty for his role in the murder and was awaiting sentencing. The resolution of the case brought a measure of justice to a grieving family who sought to create a positive legacy from their profound loss.
